She answered with simplicity, "Why, of course--what else?"

By this time another boy had stepped out, and having chosen a javelin,
tested it with hand and foot, then retiring a pace or two rushed up to
the throwing mark and flung it straight and true into the bared bosom of
the man. And as though it had struck a wall of brass, the shaft leapt
back falling quivering at the thrower's feet. Another and another tried
unsuccessfully, until at last, vexed at their futility, I said, "I have
a somewhat scanty wardrobe that would be all the better for that fellow's
summer suiting, by your leave I will venture a throw against him."

"It is useless," answered An; "none but one who knows more magic than
he, or is especially befriended by the Fates can touch him through the
envelope he has put on."

"Still, I think I will try."

"It is hopeless, I would not willingly see you fail," whispered the girl,
with a sudden show of friendship.

"And what," I said, bending down, "would you give me if I succeeded?"
Whereat An laughed a little uneasily, and, withdrawing her hand from mine,
half turned away. So I pushed through the spectators and stepped into
the ring. I went straight up to the pile of weapons, and having chosen
one went over to the mystic. "Good fellow," I cried out ostentatiously,
trying the sharpness of the javelin-point with my finger, "where are
all of those sixteen summer suits of yours lying hid?"

"It matters nothing," said the man, as if he were asleep.