The first sip of the tea, which was quite strong, nearly caused a wry expression on Walter's face, but he managed to control himself so far as not to betray his want of relish for the beverage his hostess offered him. The only redeeming quality it had was that it was hot, and, exposed as he had been to the storm, warm drink was agreeable.
"There's some bread and there's some meat," said the woman. "You can help yourself."
"Are you not going to eat supper with me?" asked Walter.
"No, I shall wait for Jack."
She sat down in a chair before the fire, leaving Walter to take care of himself, and seemed plunged in thought.
"What a strange woman!" thought Walter. "I wonder if her husband is anything like her. If he is, they must be an agreeable couple."
He ate heartily of the food, and succeeded in emptying his cup of tea. He would have taken another cup if there had been milk and sugar, but it was too bitter to be inviting.
"Will you have some more tea?" asked the hostess, turning round.
"No, I thank you."
"You miss the milk and sugar?"