Meanwhile, Elspeth had been astonished beyond measure at the formidable party that besieged her kitchen door. In the first place, she was not accustomed to let the Squire in that way; and in the second, she caught up at once, from odd remarks, that something was amiss; so having brought the easel out from its place behind the churn, she retired to a respectful distance to listen and pick up what hints she could.
The Squire was the first to look. He examined the canvas closely for an instant; then he said,—"Now, boys; let each one take a look; then tell me who this is. To my mind, there's no doubt."
"Why, Bill the Kicker!" sang out all three with one voice.
"And so say I," confirmed the Squire.
"It's splendid!" added Will.
"The rascal!" said the Squire. "He shall smart for it."
Elspeth came a step or two towards the group.
"Would it be the lad that fetched the chair?" asked she.
"The same," nodded young Grantley. "Will you like to look?"