Charnock had a keen eye for the ridiculous and a pretty wit, and was no longer handicapped by the fear of being dismissed.

While the foreman replied with coarse but rather meaningless abuse, Charnock's retorts had a definite aim and hit their mark.

He indicated with humorous skill the defects in his antagonist's looks and character, and Festing's gang laughed uproariously, while the borrowed workmen applauded as loudly as they durst.

At length, the foreman, breathless and red in face, gave up the unequal contest and returned to his first question.
"If you came for an argument, you've got it, and I can go on for some time yet," Charnock replied.

"However, if you really want to know why the boys are helping me, you can ask Mr.Norton at the bridge." The foreman retired, muttering, but not towards the bridge, and Festing looked hard at Charnock.
"I was anxious for a moment," Charnock admitted.