"We don't want old Principle's sermons here," exclaimed Dudley, having recovered his good humor. "Aren't you awfully hungry? I'm sure tea must be ready."
They went to the terrace where a most elaborate repast was set out, which they thoroughly enjoyed. After it was over all the servants came up to drink Roy's health; the old butler Pike made a little speech, and Roy responded; his words lingering in the memories of those who heard him for long afterward.
Miss Bertram, as she looked at his upright, slender little figure, and noted the intense emphasis with which he spoke, felt a pang go through her, as she wondered if his frail young life would be cut short before he reached manhood.
"I'm awfully much obliged to you all for your good wishes. I'm determined when I grow up and come to live with you that I'll do all the good I can to everybody. I hope I'm getting stronger, and I think I may be able to do as much as other people. But whatever I am, I promise you I'll do my very best for the property!"
Then three cheers were given for the little master; and after the ceremony was over, Miss Bertram told her little nephews to amuse themselves quietly for another half hour before they returned home.
Their plans were already arranged, and they went straight to the stables for their ponies to try the leap the old groom had mentioned to them.
He had already saddled them, and a few minutes after, they came through the small paddock in front of the spot.
It was rather an awkward hedge, though not a very high one with a broad stream of running water the other side.
Old Ben began to get a little nervous as he saw the boys eyeing the leap rather doubtfully.
"Has the hedge grown since our fathers were little boys?" asked Dudley.