The girl looked at him, vexed, yet laughing:
"I don't want people who do not know you to think you really are the dub you pretend to be! Do you wish Miss Girard to believe it?"
"I know more about you than you think I do, Harry. Mr. Guild portrayed for me a few instances of your 'mouse'-like courage. And I don't wish you to lose your temper and be shot if the Uhlans ride into Lesse and insult us all! Therefore I approve of our sailing for home. And the sooner the better!"
"You frighten me," he said; "I think I'll ask Jean to pack my things now." And he got up, limping, and started for the door.
"Mother," she said, "that boar's tusks may poison him. Won't you make him let us bandage it properly?"
"I think you had better, Harry," said Mrs. Courland, rising.
"Oh, no; it's all right——"
"Harry!" That was all Valentine said. But he stopped short.
"Take his other arm, mother," said the girl with decision.