Suppose we go ahead on the flint-and-spark basis."
They went at once into the familiar trance state. Nightfall was
approaching on the part of Sanus in which they were interested.
Smith and Van Emmon came upon Dulnop and Corrus as they were talking
together. The herdsman was saying:
"Lad, my heart is heavy this night." Much of his usual vigor was
absent. "When I were passing Cunora's field this day, some of the
masters came and drove me over to her side. I tried to get away, and
one threatened to kill. I fear me, lad, they intend to force us to
marry!"
"What!" fiercely, from the younger.
Corrus laid a hand upon his arm. "Nay, Dulnop; fear not. I have no
feeling for thy Cunora; I may marry her, but as for fathering her
children--no!"
"Suppose," through set teeth, "suppose They should threaten to kill
thee?"
"I should rather die, Dulnop, than be untrue to Rolla!"
The younger man bounded to his feet. "Spoken like a man! And I tell
thee, neither shall I have aught to do with Rolla! Rather death than
dishonor!"
Next moment silence fell between them; and then Van Emmon and Smith
noted that both men had been bluffing in what they had said.
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