“Frances!” ejaculated Miss Matilda.
“Ugh! Any one would think I was a bear upon a pole,” coughed Sir Hampton; and he wiped his eyes as he grew better.
“But, Hampy, dear,” said Lady Rea, “it will be so strange. Suppose Mr Trevor calls?”
“Tell the servants to shut the door in his face,” growled Sir Hampton. “An insulting puppy!”
“Oh, pa, dear, don’t be so cross,” said Fin. “Take us out for a drive this afternoon, and let’s see if the box has come from Mudie’s.”
“Disgraceful—and on one’s own land, too,” growled Sir Hampton, not heeding his daughter, but still muttering thunder.
“But you will take us, papa?” said Fin, leaning on his shoulder.
“Such insolence!” muttered Sir Hampton.
“Was he trespassing, Hampton?” said Miss Matilda.
“Yes, and a pack of fellows along with him,” cried Sir Hampton, firing up once more.