"How old are you, Martin?" says she suddenly.
"Twenty-seven."
"And I shall be twenty-six to-morrow."
"I judged you older."
"Do I look it, Martin?"
"Yes—no, no!"
"Meaning what, Martin!"
"You do seem older, being no silly maid but of a constant mind, and one to endure hardship. Also you are very brave in peril, very courageous and high-hearted. Moreover you are wise."
"Do you think me all this?" says she softly. "And wherefore?"
"I have never heard you complain yet—save of me, and I have never seen you afraid. Moreover you caught a goat and killed it!"