"Never heard o' the British Fleet, I suppose?"
Uncle smiled. Such a smile might have been seen upon the face of Ulysses after his wanderings, when Penelope asked foolish question.
"Mother, I've seen they mighty ships o' war, which is what you can't brag on. But more'n our Fleet were wanted afore, in the days o' Bonaparty, and will be again. You mind that bit o' pork, and leave young Garge to me."
He gave undivided attention to George; the pleasant smile faded from his face. His likeness to his sister came out.
"Be you afeard, Garge?"
George pulled himself together.
"I be bold as brass, except wi' maids."
"That any son o' mine should own up to that! Afeard wi' maids! What a gert booby! I be afeard for maids, if so be as they Proosians come rampin' into France. And 'tis true they be over the line a'ready."
"How do 'ee know that?" asked his wife.
"Never you mind, Mother. I picks up my information as you does, here and there. I told Master Lionel as how France was invaded, and he gave me half-a-crown, he did."