The scolding voice ceased instantly. After a few seconds he tapped again; then a voice was heard from just behind the door.
“Tomas,” said the voice, “go and bring up the two dogs with you before I take the door off the chain.”
The door was then opened a few inches and a face peered out “What would you be wanting at this hour of the night?” said the woman.
“Not much, ma’am,” said the sergeant; “only a little direction about the road, for we are not sure whether we’ve gone too far or not far enough.”
The woman noticed their uniforms.
“Is it policemen ye are? There’s no harm in your coming in, I suppose, and if a drink of milk is any good to ye I have plenty of it.”
“Milk’s better than nothing,” said the sergeant with a sigh.
“I’ve a little sup of spirits,” said she, “but it wouldn’t be enough to go around.”
“Ah, well,” said he, looking sternly at his comrades, “everybody has to take their chance in this world,” and he stepped into the house followed by his men.
The women gave him a little sup of whisky from a bottle, and to each of the other men she gave a cup of milk.