Entering the house, he met Katy in the hall.
"Is your mistress in?" he asked.
"Yes, sir; she's up stairs. Have you heard from Frank, sir?"
"Yes, Katy," he answered in a significantly doleful tone.
"Is anything the matter of him, sir?" asked Katy, taking the hint.
"Oh, Katy, I've heard bad news," said Mr. Craven, pulling out his white handkerchief, and elaborately wiping his eyes.
"Bad news! What is it, sir?" demanded Katy.
"I can't tell it," wailed Mr. Craven.
"Spit it out like a man!" exclaimed Katy, impatiently. "Is the dear boy sick?"