Dick was confounded to be thus outfaced with his own exaggerated words ; but though he coloured , he still spoke stoutly . `` Truly , '' said he , `` we are in straits . Yet , could I but win out of this house for half an hour , I do honestly tell myself that all might still go well ; and for the marriage , it should be prevented . '' `` And for the lions , '' mimicked the girl , `` they shall be driven . '' `` I crave your excuse , '' said Dick . `` I speak not now in any boasting humour , but rather as one inquiring after help or counsel ; for if I get not forth of this house and through these sentinels , I can do less than naught . Take me , I pray you , rightly . '' `` Why said ye he was rustic , Joan ? '' the girl inquired . `` I warrant he hath a tongue in his head ; ready , soft , and bold is his speech at pleasure . What would ye more ? '' `` Nay , '' sighed Joanna , with a smile , `` they have changed me my friend Dick , 't is sure enough . When I beheld him , he was rough indeed . But it matters little ; there is no help for my hard case , and I must still be Lady Shoreby ! '' `` Nay , then , '' said Dick , `` I will even make the adventure . A friar is not much regarded ; and if I found a good fairy to lead me up , I may find another belike to carry me down . How call they the name of this spy ? '' `` Rutter , '' said the young lady ; `` and an excellent good name to call him by . But how mean ye , lion-driver ? What is in your mind to do ? ''
`` To offer boldly to go forth , '' returned Dick ; `` and if any stop me , to keep an unchanged countenance , and say I go to pray for XXXXX .
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