Ralph had by this time got the key into the lock of his door, and opening it for the children to pass in, he said:
"I beg your pardon, Mrs. Short, but I'm in haste, and a little hard of hearing, as you know;" and in he went, shutting the door behind him.
"Nasty, crusty creetur' he ever was and ever will be! Says he's in haste, no—but likes to keep a body wondering. But I'll know who he's got with him before I'm very much older."
She rolled herself off her arm-chair, and waddled to the hall door; down her own garden and up that belonging to Ralph in less time than one could reasonably have expected her to take. Her knock was heard by the trio in Ralph's kitchen. Ralph went to the window—then strode to the door.
"Oh, Mr. Trulock, it's not often you have company," began Mrs. Short, in her oiliest voice, "and so I says to myself, 'So short of china and sich as he is, very like he hasn't a plate a piece for 'em,' so I came to offer a loan (I know you'll be careful) of anything you may require. Now ain't I a good-natured neighbour?"
"Thank you, but I have all I want," said Ralph. "Good morning, ma'am," and again the door closed.
Mrs. Short retired, fuming.
When Ralph returned to his kitchen, Ruth and Ollie had taken off their hats and were standing before the little oven, from which there came forth a most appetising smell. Ralph began to look about for plates, etc., but before he could bring them to the table, Ruth came up to him and said with a smile:
"May I set the table, sir?"
"Do, child. I am tired, and shall be glad to sit down."