"And afterwards to you, Queen Rose. I shall not forget to claim my privileges in that respect."
She laughed a little, but she obeyed his behest as a matter of course. "Come for a turn in the garden with me, Bunny!" she said. "I've hardly seen you today."
The boy got up, passing Jake with a careless slap on the shoulder that testified to the excellent good fellowship that existed between them.
Saltash turned back into the room, and threw himself down by his host.
"That's right," he said as the door closed upon the brother and sister.
"Now we can talk."
Jake pushed a box of cigars to him. His keen eyes took Saltash in with the attention of the man accustomed to probe beneath the surface. There were not many who could hide from Jake Bolton anything he desired to know.
Saltash flicked an eyelid under his direct scrutiny as he chose his cigar. He was never more baffling than in his moments of candour.
"There are several things I've come to consult you about, Jake," he said easily, as Jake leaned across with a match.
"I'm listening," said Jake.
Saltash sent him a quizzical glance as his cigar kindled. "Prepared to turn me down at all points?" he suggested.
Jake's mouth relaxed a little. "Prepared to listen anyway," he said.
"It's to do with young Bunny, I take it."