And he said aloud:
"My dear Hoffland, I am not one of those men who make violent protestations and feel sudden and excessive friendships. Friendship, with me, is a tree of slow growth; and I even now wonder at the position you have been able to take in my regard, upon such a slight acquaintance. There is a frank word—all words between friends should be frank. There, I call you my friend—you are such: does that please you?"
"Oh, very much," said Hoffland, smiling and banishing his sad expression instantly; "I know you are the noblest and most sincere of men."
And the boy held out to his companion a small hand, which returned the pressure of Mowbray's slightly, and was then quietly withdrawn.
"Well, now," said Mowbray, "let us come back to this affair. Denis will send you a challenge?"
"He says so."
"Well; then he will keep his promise."
"Or course he will act as a man of honor throughout," said Hoffland, laughing; "I am sure of that, because he is your friend."
"Pray drop these polite speeches, and let us talk plainly."
"Very well, Ernest; but Denis is a good fellow, eh?" asked Hoffland, smiling.