"Precisely. Oh yes, she did. Yes, yes, that was why I was so vexed about her lending her parrot."
"Why shouldn't she lend her parrot?"
"No reason at all why she shouldn't lend it; but apparently parrots are very excitable birds, and this particular one went mad under the strain of the children's performance, bit Major Downman's finger, and escaped by an upper window. Poor Miss Moxley was extremely upset, and the bird has never been seen since. So you see, as I told you, children are apt to be rather a nuisance to the other guests."
"None of the guests at Halma House keeps a tame calf?"
George looked frightened.
"Oh no, I don't think so. There's certainly never been the least sign of mooing in the garden. Besides, I'm sure Mrs. Easton would object to a calf. She even objects to dogs, as I had to tell James the other day when he came to see me very early about signing some deed or other. But what made you ask about a calf? Do you want one?"
"No, I don't want one: I hate cows and calves. Bertram and Viola, however, are likely to want one next week."
"You've been spoiling them, old chap. They'd never dare ask me for a calf. Why, it's preposterous. Yes, you've been spoiling them. Ah, well, you can afford it; that's one thing."
"Yes, I dare say I have been spoiling them, George; but you'll be able to correct that when they're once again in your sole charge."
George looked doubtful.