"No; I defy nobody. But I mean to defend myself from violence."
"What's the matter with you two boys? Oliver, what are you doing?"
The speaker was Mr. Kenyon's gardener, John Bradford, a sensible man and usuallyintelligent. Oliver often talked with him, and treated him respectfully, as he deserved. Roland was foolish enough to look down upon him because he was a poor man and occupied a subordinate position.
Oliver rose from the ground and let up his adversary.
"We have had a little difficulty, Mr. Bradford," he said. "Roland may tell you if he likes."
"What is the trouble, Roland?" enquired the gardener.
"None of your business!" answered Roland insolently.
"You are very polite," said the gardener.
"I don't feel called upon to be polite to my father's hired man," remarked Roland unpleasantly.
"If he won't answer your question, I will," said Oliver. "Roland commanded me to run and get his ball, and I didn't choose to do it. He attacked me, and I defended myself. That is all there is about it."