I replied that I had none to share with him, meaning only that I had no news at all. But Cady took it otherwise and his flat-featured face reddened violently, as though the pox were coming out on him.
And, "What the devil," says he, "does this young, forest-running cockerel mean? And why should he not share his news with John Helmer here,—yes, or with me, too, by God, or yet with any true man in County Tryon?"
I said that I had not intended any such meaning; that he mistook me; and that I had aimed at no discourtesy to anybody.
"And safer for you, too!" retorted Cady in a loud and threatening tone. "A boy's wisdom lies in his silence."
"Johnny Helmer asked a question of me," said I quietly. "I replied as best I knew how."
"Yes, and I'll ask a dozen questions if I like!" shouted Cady. "Don't think to bully me or cast aspersions on my political complexion!"
"If," said I, "your political complexion be no clearer than your natural one, God only can tell what ferments under your skin."
At which he seemed so taken aback that he answered nothing; but Helmer urgently demanded to know what political views I pretended to carry.
"I wear mine on my back," said I pleasantly, glancing around at both Helmer and Cady, who bore no packs on their backs in earnest of their readiness for service.
"You are a damned impudent boy!" retorted Cady, "whatever may be your politics or your complexion."