And Marius darted another pointed look at Ian again, because honestly, boy, mind the language! And the morally questionable outlook on stealing, as well. Eponine's comment only served to rattle him further; of course she was a criminal along with her father and mother, he knew that back in Paris, but he had hoped his earlier offer of sharing his rations with her would have prevented her from gathering food and water for herself and her friends through less ambiguous means.

Apparently, it was not to be the case. (And the issue about Eponine getting bossed around was a little less important to Marius, unfortunately, for him to reflect on at any length.)

He kept his eyes on Ian as he spoke in a decided voice that trembled slightly at the end. "Gallagher, she may take everything you have allotted for me. Let us not discuss this further."

That way she can no longer be accused of stealing, in a sense.