One does n't often see such vigor , size and comeliness in these degenerate days , '' said Randal , mentally booking the fine figure in the red shirt . `` I think we have discovered a rough diamond . I only wonder if Sophie is going to try and polish it , '' answered Emily , glancing at her friend , who stood a little apart , watching the rise and fall of the axe as intently as if her fate depended on it . Down rushed the tree at last , and , leaving them to examine a crow 's nest in its branches , Saul went off to his men , as if he found the praises of his prowess rather too much for him . Randal fell to sketching , the girls to their garland-making , and for a little while the sunny woodland nook was full of lively chat and pleasant laughter , for the air exhilarated them all like wine . Suddenly a man came running from the wood , pale and anxious , saying , as he hastened by for help , `` Blasted tree fell on him ! Bleed to death before the doctor comes ! '' `` Who ? who ? '' cried the startled trio . But the man ran on , with some breathless reply , in which only a name was audible -- `` Basset . '' `` The deuce it is ! '' and Randal dropped his pencil , while the girls sprang up in dismay . Then , with one impulse , they hastened to the distant group , half visible behind the fallen trees and corded wood . Sophie was there first , and forcing her way through the little crowd of men , saw a red-shirted figure on the ground , crushed and bleeding , and threw herself down beside it with a cry that pierced the hearts of those who heard it . In the act she saw it was not Saul , and covered her bewildered face as if to hide its joy . A strong arm lifted her , and the familiar voice said cheeringly , -- `` I 'm all right , dear . Poor Bruce is hurt , but we 've sent for help . Better go right home and forget all about it . '' `` Yes , I will , if I can do nothing ; '' and Sophie meekly returned to her friends who stood outside the circle over which Saul 's head towered , assuring them of his safety .
Hoping they had not seen her agitation , she led Emily away , leaving XXXXX to give what aid he could and bring them news of the poor wood-chopper 's state .
Basset Bruce Emily Randal Saul Sophie comeliness days deuce garland-making