“No, not a bit,” said Cyril triumphantly.
“No, nor his ain’t like yours, Master Perry.”
The boys stared, for this was a new phase of the question, and they eagerly inspected the treasures.
“I’m sure I’m right,” said Perry confidently.
“And I’m sure I’m right,” cried Cyril.
John Manning put his arms round his knees, as he sat on the ground, and rocked himself to and fro, chuckling softly.
At that point the colonel came up, and looked round wonderingly.
“You’re just in time, father,” cried Perry. “Look at this seed John Manning has collected.—Show him, John.”
The old soldier triumphantly pulled out a handful, and held it under the colonel’s nose.
“What’s that?” said his master.