The two boys went straight up to the Hall, passing Nat on the way, ready to exchange a salute and a grin.
“What are you laughing at, Nat?” cried Fred.
“Only at you two, sir. You’ve been up to some mischief, I know.”
The boys exchanged hasty glances, which, being interpreted, meant, “Has he been watching us?”
“I always knows,” said Nat, with a chuckle.
“No, you don’t,” cried Fred. “You’re just like our Samson.”
“So would you be, Master Fred, if you was a twin.”
“I did not mean that. I meant being so precious cunning and sure about everything when you don’t know anything at all.”
“Ah, don’t I, sir! Ha, ha, ha! I could tell Sir Godfrey a deal more than you think for.”
“Yes, you’d better,” cried Fred. “You do, that’s all, and I’ll go home and lead Samson such a life.”