"It's a way one gets among the grooms and gamekeepers; but it means nothing," was the pacific answer. "I was only afraid you might have dropped a word about what I told you of, and that would have done mischief."
"Ah!"
"Just now, father, half a word might spoil everything."
"Half a word! Well, well, there was nought said that could do harm. Just a hint about the lease, nothing more. There, now, ye have it all. A fair question at the first would ha' saved all this bother."
"Are you sure this was all?" asked the young man, eying his father closely.
"Aye. Sure."
"Hush! One of the gamekeepers is coming."
"Aye, aye."
Old Storms moved forward, as the intruder came up with a pair of birds in his hands, which he was carrying to "The Rest."
Richard remained behind, for the man met him with a broad grin, as if some good joke were on his mind.