Mr. Kenyon smiled.
"My dear boy," he said, "I do not wonder at his putting you off. Cricket is not a very attractive game at this time of year, in a country like this."
"Never mind the cricket," cried Harry. "Look here, father, will you go?"
"I am very much tempted to say yes."
"Say it then, father. I say, you'd take Mike, wouldn't you?"
"Certainly; he would be very useful."
"Here, I must go and tell Phra."
"There is no need; here he comes."
For the lad was crossing the garden, and as Harry met him with his face lit up with excitement, Phra's countenance was dark and dejected.
"It's all over, Hal," he said. "My father says it is out of the question for us to go alone."