"Well enough, as I have done many a time and oft!"
"But, O Martin, 'twill make such dire mess and this our larder!"
"No matter, I'll clean it up. Howbeit I must learn whence cometh this cold-breathing air. Besides, the fire shall cook our supper and moreover—"
But here I checked speaking all at once, for above the dismal groans and wailing I had heard a sudden fierce whispering:
"O Martin, O Martin!" sighed my companion, "We are not alone—somewhere there are people whispering! Did you hear, Martin, O did you hear?" And I felt her all of a-tremble where she leaned against me.
"'Tis gone now!" says I, speaking under my breath.
"But 'twas there, Martin—a hateful whispering."
"Aye, I heard it," says I fierce and loud, "and I'll find out who or what—"
"Who or what!" hissed a soft voice. Hereupon I sheathed the knife I had drawn and laughed, and immediately there came another laugh, though very soft.
"Ahoy!" I shouted, and presently back came the answer "Ahoy!" and then again, though much fainter, "Ahoy!" "'Tis nought but an echo," says I laughing (yet mighty relieved all the same).