"Ha, Zeb," said he, a little breathlessly, "I—I was looking for you——"
"Same likewise, sir," answered the Sergeant, standing at attention. "There's Colonel Cleeve, Sir Benjamin, and the Viscount a-waiting to play cards wi' you——"
"Excellent! I'll join 'em at once——"
"But your—your coat, sir?"
"Aye, to be sure! You'll find it in the arbour, Zeb, bring it to me in the library."
"Now, I wonder," murmured the Sergeant as the Major hastened away with long strides, "I wonder wherefore so rapid?"
So my lady jumped. She had just caught up the Ramillie coat when she heard the approach of heavy steps and, being as resourceful as she was determined, she folded the garment compactly and sat upon it.
The Sergeant, about to enter the arbour, paused, started and stood at attention.
"Good day, Sergeant Zebedee!" quoth she demurely.
"Same to you my lady and thank'ee."