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. For,
sitting apart in the growing darkness, each was plainly in terror of the
morrow. Presently Corrus spoke in a low tone:
"All the same, Dulnop, it were well for me and thee if the secret of the
flowing blossom were given us this night.
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