Cameron did not seem as much shocked as the squire anticipated. He took the revelation very coolly.
“You say he did this without provocation?”
“Yes, Mr. Cameron.”
“Did James tell you this?”
“He did; and he is a boy of truth.”
“But perhaps he did not look upon it as a provocation when he called Herbert and his mother low.”
“He didn't say anything about that.”
“I dare say not.”
“And even if he did use the word, it would not justify Carter in brutally assaulting him.”
“I confess I don't agree with you there, Squire Leech. I hate brutality as much as anyone and an unprovoked assault I certainly look upon as brutal. But for a boy to resent an insult directed against his mother is quite a different matter, and if Herbert had not acted as he did, I should have been ashamed of him.”