She was hard to withstand, this witch with her friendly eyes and frank speech, despite her jarring voice.
She nodded to him sociably as she met his grave look.

"You aren't on a pleasure-trip, I reckon," she observed.
"Pleasure!" said Merefleet, giving way with abrupt bitterness.

"No.
There's not much pleasure in unearthing skeletons.

That's what I'm doing." The beautiful eyes opposite opened wide.

She was silent for a moment.
Then, "Think you're wise ?" she enquired casually.
"No," said Merefleet roughly.