"They seem to be pretty friendly," said May, pointing to the boys, who were monopolising the barmaid's time and attention.
"What'll you have, Jack," said Hil, aloud. "I say, miss, when you are at leisure—"
"I beg your pardon, sir," answered the barmaid, coming forward.
"Same again, miss, please."
"Very little brandy," put in May, for she noticed the spittoon by her side was nearly full and would not carry much more.
Reg picked up the paper which Hil had laid down, and looking down the columns gave a start at something that met his eye. Calling Hal aside, he shewed it him. Hal merely nodded his head and, shortly after, they left. As soon as they had gone, Hil took up the paper again, and looking at the column Reg had pointed to, turned to May, and said:
"I was wondering what had startled those two and I believe it must be this."
May looked at the column she indicated and read:
"W—k, come to-morrow. All safe, S—l."
"Nothing in that, Percy," answered May. "That girl's name is Sal, she's in it," she added, in a lower voice.