‘Well?’ said Protheroe, without turning his head.
‘I shall want a word with thee by and by, my lad,’ Thistlewood said quietly.
‘Have it now,’ replied Lane, settling his shoulders jauntily.
‘There’s time in plenty afore us,’ Thistlewood answered, regarding him with supreme disfavour.
The younger man looked straight before him with an exasperating aspect of indifference.
‘When you like,’ he said.
‘Very well,’ replied Thistlewood. ‘In five minutes’ time from now.’
‘Church time,’ said Lane smilingly, surveying the landscape.
‘Beest that keen set on the sermon?’ John inquired.
‘Don’t know that I am,’ replied the enemy, rising a little on his toes, and then settling his shoulders anew.