You'll be all right." He thrust an abrupt arm around her shoulders, gripping them hard to still her trembling.

"Lean against me! I've got you quite safe." She relaxed with a murmur of thanks.

There was something intensely reassuring about that firm grip.

She sat quite motionless for a space with closed eyes, gradually regaining her self-command.
In the end a snuffle and whine from above aroused her.

She sat up with a start.
"Oh, Columbus! Don't let him fall over!" Her companion laughed a little.