“‘Were you in the fight?’
“‘Had a little taste of it, sa.’
“‘Stood your ground, did you?’
“‘No, sa; I runs.’
“‘Run at the first fire, did you?’
“‘Yes, sa; and would ha’ run soona had I know’d it war comin’.’
“‘Why, that wasn’t very creditable to your courage.’
“‘Dat isn’t in my line, sa; cookin’s my perfeshun.’ “‘Well, but have you no regard for your reputation?’ ‘“Refutation’s nuffin by the side ob life.’
“‘Do you consider your life worth more than other people’s?’
“‘It’s worth more to me, sa.’