'But now,' he went on, 'I fear I must hurt your house a little.

I have great confidence, however, that I shall be able to make up to you for it one day.' 'Never mind the house, if only you can get safe off,' she answered.

'I don't think they will hurt this precious lamb,' she added, clasping little Barbara to her bosom.

'For myself, it is all one; I am ready for anything.' 'It is but a little hole for Lina I want to make,' said Curdie.

'She can creep through a much smaller one than you would think.' Again he took his mattock, and went to the back wall.
'They won't burn the house,' he said to himself.