These delicate questions are not in my line. I
will tell you plainly what I am. I am just a messenger, perhaps more
like a policeman," he added, smiling, "than anything else. I just go and
appear when I am wanted, if there is a row or a chance of one. Don't
misunderstand me!" he said more kindly. "It is not from any lack of
interest in you or our friend here. I should very much like to know what
step you will take, but it is simply not my business: our duties here
are very clearly defined, and I can just do my job, and nothing more."
He made a courteous salute, and walked off without looking back, leaving
on me the impression of a young military officer, perfectly courteous
and reliable, not inclined to cultivate his emotions or to waste words,
but absolutely effective, courageous, and dutiful.
"Well," I said to Cynthia with a show of cheerfulness, "what shall we do
next? Are you feeling strong enough to go on?"
"I am sure I don't know," said Cynthia wearily. "Don't ask me. I have
had a great fright, and I begin to wish I had stayed behind. How
uncomfortable everything is! Why can one never have a moment's peace?
There," she said to me, "don't be vexed, I am not blaming you; but I
hated you for not showing more fight when those men set on you, and I
hated Lucius for having done it; you must forgive me! I am sure you only
did what was kind and right--but I have had a very trying time, and I
don't like these bothers.
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