Basia fixed on him the look of a wild-cat and said, “But why are you less concerned about Krysia?”
The little knight was confused beyond measure at these words, and said, “You do not know Ketling’s power, but you will discover it.”
“But why should not Krysia discover it? Besides, it is not I who sing,—
‘The fair head grows faint;
Where will she hide herself?
How will the poor thing defend herself?’”
Now Krysia was confused in her turn, and the little wasp continued, “In extremities I will ask Pan Adam to lend me his shield; but when you go away, I know not with what Krysia will defend herself, if peril comes on her.”
Pan Michael had now recovered, and answered somewhat severely, “Perhaps she will find wherewith to defend herself better than you.”
“How so?”
“For she is less giddy, and has more sedateness and dignity.”