After thinking a few minutes, Win drew out his notebook and made a careful copy. Surely that was not abusing Max's hospitality and could do no harm. If he discovered anything interesting in looking up the matter in some history of Jersey at the public library, he would share his knowledge. Or there surely must be books of that kind here at the Manor. Perhaps he would be permitted to come again and investigate this fascinating room more thoroughly. He wished he knew Max better. If he only did, he could show his find at once and ask for an opinion. Well, that might come later. Anyway, it would be great fun to study the enigmatic paper and see what he could make of it.
When Max came quietly a few minutes later, Win made no mention of his discovery. Surprised to find it so late, he thanked his host, and declared himself entirely fit to walk back to Rose Villa.
"Come again," said Max as they parted at the gates. "I know you liked the library and that will please Uncle Dick. You must come when he's at home and he'll show you all his special treasures."
Win went on with a happy face. That meant he would certainly have another opportunity to browse in that fascinating old book-room, and perhaps become so well acquainted with the Manor family that he could share his puzzle with somebody who would be equally interested in finding out what it meant.
CHAPTER IX
CHRISTMAS IN JERSEY
Fran's "happiest day" soon dawned, for not long after the Orgueil picnic, she and Edith were walking down one of Jersey's lovely lanes. Enclosed by high ivy-covered earthen banks, it ran, a straight white road between green walls, and so narrow that at regular intervals, little bays were provided that carriages might pass. Evergreen oaks, often growing from the banks themselves, and drooping vines made the lane a bower of beauty even on a December afternoon. The girls had stopped to admire the old Norman gateway leading to Vinchelez Manor, when suddenly around a corner, bounced the beach dog. Close behind came Constance Lisle and Maxfield Hamilton.
[Illustration: THE OLD NORMAN GATEWAY LEADING TO VINCHELEZ MANOR]
"We've been to call on your respective mother and sister," declared
Connie, "and were desolated not to find the little ladies. What luck to
meet you! Max, you don't need an introduction, do you, after playing
Lord Lochinvar with both girlsat once?"
At this sweeping characterization, they all laughed and walked along together, Tylo galloping ahead or falling behind as his sweet will led.