Miss was gaping at me, and so was the whole family, but young Harringay crossed his legs, and says he indifferently,—
"'Tis said soldiers have long tongues."
"Why, they have long swords," said I peremptorily, for I was annoyed by his airs and graces.
He gave a little laugh, as if he were amused with something all to himself; and I was aware at the same time that the man in black was eyeing me steadily. He had the look of a lawyer's clerk, or something of the sort, so I returned him his stare with nonchalance. This made him give way, and he turned his attention to the party opposite, for there could be no pretence now of reading a page.
"You go armed always, sir?" inquired the old gentleman.
"One never knows whom one may meet," said I, with a yawn.
"You signify highwaymen?" he said in a lower voice.
"Why, I'm told there is danger from these gentry," said I.
Harringay laughed lightly.
"Pooh!" he says. "They are main cowards, and would not attack any man with boldness and a pistol."