A moment later the situation explained itself. Behind Mr. Stillbottle, clinging affectionately to his flowing coat-tails, marched The Caution and The Cure. They were dressed in white, and looked exactly alike except that The Caution wore abbreviated white knickerbockers and The Cure a little white skirt. Their socks were white, their sashes and chubby legs were a radiant pink, and the angelic countenance of each was wreathed in smiles.
The procession drew up at the tea-table, where its leader proceeded to deposit the tea-pot. For a moment there was a pause in the conversation, while the hearts of the Welwyns stood still. The Twins, uncontrolled, sometimes erred on the side of originality.
"He's the Queen," explained The Cure, indicating the flinching figure of Mr. Stillbottle.
"Yesh; and we're holdin' up of his train," added The Caution.
Next moment Connie Carmyle had captured them both.
"You darlings!" she cried, and carried them off to the window-seat. The situation was saved.
"Little pets!" observed Lady Adela, smiling.
Even Sylvia forgot to pose for a moment. Tea was served amid a hum of cheerful conversation. The children had evoked the maternal instinct, and all was well.
Only Mr. Stillbottle remained cold.
"You oughter 'ave kep' them locked up somewhere," he announced severely to Tilly; and left the room.