“Yes, m—Rose.”
“Then I’ll aid thee with thy basket—come!”
“Oh no, no—Rose. My ol’ trug be naun heavy, and your ’ands be so—so——”
“So what?”
“White an’ pretty.”
“Tush!” says my lady, scowling at the members in question. “They be very strong hands, child. Come, give me hold o’ thy basket!”
And presently from the shadow of his curtain Sir John saw them walk away, the large basket a-swing between them, and they laughing and chatting together gaily.
No sooner were they out of sight than Sir John tossed night-cap to ceiling and rang the bell.
“Bob,” quoth he as the Corporal appeared, “Bob, why the devil am I not shaved and dressed?”
“Your honour’s orders were for your honour not to be disturbed till ten o’clock, and ’tis scarce nine, sir.”