And just as Danny Lynch's retort of derision died away Beryl burst upon them.
Her mother needed only to give her one look to know that something was different.
"And what is it, my darlin'? It's that hungry I was getting to set my eyes on you. Two hours late you are, Beryl."
Beryl welcomed this reproach as it gave her an opportunity to impart her good news in an impressive way.
"I couldn't get away a minute sooner. I've a new position." She was going to say "job" but it did not seem fitting.
"What? Without so much as a word to your father and mother? And did the likes of that old housekeeper fire you?"
Beryl had no intention of telling of her ignominious fray with Mrs. Budge.
"I'm engaged to be a companion to Gordon Forsyth!" she answered, grandly.
At this Moira Lynch dropped a spoon with a loud clatter.
"A companion to—that new boy who's come to the Manor?"