The exceeding solemnity of his manner obviously affected Heriot's high spirits.
"What's up?" he inquired.
"I should hardly think you would need to ask that, considering what has passed between you. In fact, I gather that they want to be satisfied there's some reasonable explanation of your conduct."
Mr. Walkingshaw gently whistled.
"Oh, that's the game, is it? Well, I suppose I'll just have to tell him the simple truth, in justice to myself."
His son heartily agreed.
"It's the only thing to be done," said he, "the only honest course left, so far as I can see. Just make a clean breast of everything, and you may trust me to confirm all you say."
"My dear boy, you're devilish good. I'm afraid I really haven't been as appreciative lately as I ought. You're talking like a sportsman now. Come on, we'll go in and tackle 'em together."
He took his son's arm and gave him a friendly smile as they crossed the hall; but the seriousness of the situation seemed to prevent Andrew from returning these evidences of comradeship.