"Would you let a churlish old brute of a farmer strike you without making him suffer for it ?" "I fancy I should return the compliment, my lad," replied his uncle.
"Of course you would! So would I.And he shall suffer for it." The boy looked savage, and his uncle patted him down.
"I've boxed his son; I'll box him," said Richard, shouting for more wine.
"What, boy! Is it old Blaize has been putting you up!" "Never mind, uncle!" The boy nodded mysteriously.
'Look there!' Adrian read on Ripton's face, he says 'never mind,' and lets it out! "Did we beat to-day, uncle ?" "Yes, boy; and we'd beat them any day they bowl fair.

I'd beat them on one leg.

There's only Watkins and Featherdene among them worth a farthing." "We beat!" cries Richard.

"Then we'll have some more wine, and drink their healths." The bell was rung; wine ordered.

Presently comes in heavy Benson, to say supplies are cut off.