"No. Cheques go out on Monday, I believe. Of course," he added, "I go in for it scientifically. I leave no chances, I don't. I'm making a capital outlay of over five pounds ten on next week's competition, and I may tell you I shall get it back again, with interest."
At the same moment, Bert re-entered the room.
"He's not there," said Bert. "His drawing's there, but he isn't."
This news was adverse to the cause of manly peace.
"Are you sure?" asked Clara, implying that Bert might not have made a thorough search for George in the boudoir.
Hilda sat grim and silent.
"He may be upstairs," said the weakly amiable Edwin.
Hilda rang the bell with cold anger.
"Is Master George in the house?" she harshly questioned Ada.
"No'm. He went out a bit since."