You won't fight with Van....

Joel, maybe you deserved what you got.

You say some--some rude things." "I only said I'd pay you back," burst out Joel.
"How ?" "I swore I'd lay fer you--an' steal your clothes--so you'd have to run home naked." There was indeed something lacking in Joel, but it was not sincerity.
His hurt had rankled deep and his voice trembled with indignation.
"But, Joel, I don't go swimming in spring-holes," protested Lucy, divided between amusement and annoyance.
"I meant it, anyhow," said Joel, doggedly.
"Are you absolutely honest?
Is that all you said to provoke Van ?" "It's all, Lucy, I swear." She believed him, and saw the unfortunate circumstance more than ever her fault.

"I'm sorry, Joel.

I'm much to blame.