The children shouted assent.
‘How in the world does she know them?’ thought the bewildered officer.
The children mounted the elephant.
‘Now, Major Apsley,’ said Miss Blossom, ‘I have found your children.’
‘I owe you thanks, Madam; I have been very anxious, but—’
‘It is more than your thanks I want. I want you to do something for me, a very little thing,’ said Miss Blossom, with the air of a supplicating angel, the violet eyes dewy with tears.
‘I am sure I shall be delighted to do anything you ask, but—’
‘Will you promise? It is a very little thing indeed!’ and her hands were clasped in entreaty. ‘Please promise!’
‘Well, I promise.’
‘Then keep your word: it is a little thing! Take Tommy home this instant, let nobody speak to him or touch him—and—make him take a bath, and see him take it.’