"Well, for that matter we are not riding our own beasts."
"One horse remains to us anyhow, so if three sit at home the fourth man may ride to the war if he wishes; but that fellow has not even a saddle, for the wolves have made bits of it."
"Besides, he sticks his nose up. What has he against us? Just tell me."
"Well, ask him."
"Shall I do it right away?"
"Eight away, but politely, so as not to offend old Pan Gideon. Only after he has answered can we challenge."
"And then we shall have him!"
"Which of us is to do this?"
"I, of course, for I am the eldest," said Mateush. "I will rub the icicle from my mustache, and then at him!"
"But remember well what he says to thee."