There was something in Steadfast's mind that would have
preferred declining all payment, but he was a little afraid of
Patience's dismay at having another mouth to provide for all the
winter, and he thought too that Jeph's anger at the adoption of the
Canaanitish child might be averted if it were a matter of business
and payment, so he accepted the sum, thanked Sir Harry and the rest,
and renewed his promise to do the best in his power for the little
maiden. He rather wondered that no questions were asked as to which
side he held; but Sir Harry had no time to inquire, and could only
hope that the honest, open face, respectful manner, clean dress, and
the kindness which had rescued the child on the battlefield were
tokens that he might be trusted to take care of the poor little
orphan. Besides, many of the country people were too ignorant to
understand the difference between the sides, but only took part with
their squire, or if they loved their clergyman, clung to him. So the
knight would not ask any questions, and only further called out "Fare
thee well, then, poor little maid, we will send after thee when we
can," and then giving a sharp, quick order, all the little party
galloped off to overtake the rest.
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