"Well, I'm hanged if I can make them out," said Tickell, to Mrs. Morgan, who had come towards him.
"Found out anything, Mr. Tickell?" asked that lady, sweetly.
"No, just had another try, but no use."
"Wonder if they're criminals escaping from gaol," hazarded Mrs. Morgan, who had all the romantic imagination of her sex.
"No, more like lords in disguise," said Tickell, thoughtfully.
"You've hit it, Tickell," said Hal, passing by, not having heard the remark but guessing it referred to them.
"I knew it. I knew it," said Tickell, gleefully, as he rushed below to spread the news.
"Oh, my lords, I really beg your lordships' pardon," said Mrs. Morgan, apologetically.
"Pray what for, madam?" asked Reg, wondering if she had lost her senses.
"Well, you see, your lordships, neither me nor my gals ever guessed your lordships was what you are, or we would not have talked about you so familiar-like."