"Six-thirty," the Colonel replied, "we keep early hours in the country. By the way," he added, "have you heard anything of this peonage business here this morning?"
"No, sir," the boy answered, "I started out with my schedules bright and early."
"I purpose to hold an inquiry after lunch," the planter continued. "You are lunching at Ephraim's of course?"
"Yes, Colonel Egerius," the boy answered.
"Very well," was the reply, "we will lunch together if you have no objection. Since I heard of your expected arrival I have been looking forward to your visit. Now that you are here, sir, we must make the most of you. Allow me to present my son Percy."
Hamilton made a suitable reply, and consulting his watch found that it was almost lunch time.
"I will join you in half an hour, Colonel Egerius," he said, "and shall look forward to the evening with great pleasure."
"You play a good knife and fork, I trust," said the old gentleman, smiling, as he gathered up the reins.
"Almost good enough to do justice even to Southern hospitality," answered Hamilton with a smile. The old soldier nodded approvingly. "Remember now," he said, as he rode away, "we'll hold you to your word."
At lunch Hamilton took occasion to remark on the well-being of Bullertown.