"Master John, unlock this gate at once. It's a good five mile round. I'll report you to the Squire."
Miss Loder opened her travelling-bag and took out a sheet of paper.
"I'll sign what I think will meet the case, and submit it for your approval," she said quietly.
The boys looked across at each other and waited. Then when the paper was handed to Puggy, he read it aloud.
"I promise to be a friend as well as a governess to Christina Maclahan and help her to enjoy her playtime, not hinder it. As Avril O'Flagherty and John Durward are not my pupils, I shall have nothing to say to them, unless they interfere with my pupil or with me. And hereto I set my hand.
"KATE LODER."
"Hum!" remarked Puggy, looking at her suspiciously. "This sounds well, but I don't think it is enough."
"Show it to me!" demanded Dawn.
The paper was handed across to him, and the old coachman at the same time sent his whip round Puggy's legs. The boys saw their game was up. They retreated with dignity.
"We shall keep this paper and hold you to it."
Then the gate was unlocked, and with a loud war-whoop they scampered off, and left Miss Loder to continue her drive in peace.