“We?”
“You old humbug. I measure your power with the Squire.”
Fishpingle answered with dignity:
“I have never measured that power or abused it, such as it is. And I owe everything, everything, to your family.”
“And what do we owe you?” Lionel spoke warmly. “You have devoted yourself to us.”
“Most gladly.”
“And my father doesn’t quite see it. He takes what you have done for granted—as I did. It hurts me.”
“Your father is dear to me as a brother, Master Lionel. I venture to hope that I am more than a faithful servant to him.”
“Of course you are. Am I a coward because I ask your help?”
“I am the coward.”