"While those men are about, I don't think you ought to go out alone." "Now, Ralph," said the girl, pouting, "you're as bad as father.

I declare you are not a bit like a nice, brave, merry boy now.

You used to be; but ever since you've been at that great school you have been growing more and more serious, till you are getting to be quite an old man." "And quite grey," said Ralph drily.
"It only wants that," said the girl, with a merry laugh.

"I declare that old Master Rayburn has more fun in him than you." "Wouldn't say so if you had been wounded, and had him to pull the bandages about." "What nonsense! he said I was to come and see him as soon as ever I could." "And you can't go and see him.

He wouldn't advise you to go out while those ruffians are yonder." "No," replied the girl, smiling frankly.