He, upon his side, recounted the visit of
the spy, his dangerous discovery, and speedy end.
Joanna leaned back very faint against the curtained wall.
"It will avail but little," she said. "I shall be wed to-morrow,
in the morning, after all!"
"What!" cried her friend. "And here is our paladin that driveth
lions like mice! Ye have little faith, of a surety. But come,
friend lion-driver, give us some comfort; speak, and let us hear
bold counsels."
Dick was confounded to be thus outfaced with his own exaggerated
words; but though he coloured, he still spoke stoutly.
"Truly," said he, "we are in straits. Yet, could I but win out of
this house for half an hour, I do honestly tell myself that all
might still go well; and for the marriage, it should be prevented."
"And for the lions," mimicked the girl, "they shall be driven."
"I crave your excuse," said Dick. "I speak not now in any boasting
humour, but rather as one inquiring after help or counsel; for if I
get not forth of this house and through these sentinels, I can do
less than naught.
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