“I think it just possible,” said Sir Richard gravely.
“Well, I am sorry if I wounded her feelings, but truly I don’t think she has the least sensibility. I only said what I thought. But it put her in such a rage that there was nothing for it but to escape. So I did.”
“Were you locked in your room?” enquired Sir Richard.
“Oh no! I daresay I should have been if Aunt had guessed what I meant to do, but she would never think of such a thing.”
“Then—forgive my curiosity!—why did you climb out of the window?” asked Sir Richard.
“Oh, that was on account of Pug!” replied Pen sunnily.
“Pug?”
“Yes, a horrid little creature! He sleeps in a basket in the hall, and he always yaps if he thinks one is going out. That would have awakened Aunt Almeria. There was nothing else I could do.”
Sir Richard regarded her with a lurking smile. “Naturally not. Do you know, Pen, I owe you a debt of gratitude?”
“Oh?” she said, pleased, but doubtful. “Why?”