"I think not that there is peril in so doing, answered Eustace; "and
even if there were, I could not leave him in sickness, after all his
kindness to me and patience with my inexperience."

"He is no brother nor cousin to us," said Leonard. "I see not why
we should endanger our lives for a stranger. I will not, for my own
part; and, as your old friend and comrade, I would entreat you not."

These were kinder words than Eustace had heard from Ashton since
the beginning of his jealousy, and he answered, as he thought they
were meant, in a friendly tone, "Thanks, Leonard, but I cannot
look on Gaston d'Aubricour as a stranger; and had I fewer causes
for attachment to him, I could not leave my post."

"Only you do not expect me to do the same," said Leonard; "my father
sent me here to gain honour and wealth, not to be poisoned with the
breath of a man in a fever."

"Assuredly not," said Eustace. "I will arrange matters so that you
shall no longer sleep in our tent. But let me ask of you, Leonard,
what was the meaning of your conduct of yesterday?"

"You may ask yourself," said Leonard, sullenly; "it is plain enough,
methinks."

"Have a care, Leonard. Remember that my brother's authority is given
to me."

"Much good may it do you," said Leonard; "but that is nothing to me.