"But you must. I insist."
"Perhaps, Aunt Jane," said Iris, "I could get him to tell. You see he is not accustomed to—not accustomed to——" Her little face turned crimson.
"What do you mean, Iris? Do you object to the way I speak to this child?"
"Mother never spoke to him like that," said Iris.
"And oh! it is so hot, and he is not well, and I think I can manage him. I may get him to tell me."
"Yes, I'll tell you," said Orion, "'cos you'll be faithful."
"Well, really," said Mrs. Dolman, "I am absolutely perplexed. I suppose I must give in on this occasion, or that child will be really ill, and I by no means wish to have the expense of a doctor. Miss Ramsay, you and I had better leave that little pair together. You can remain with Orion until dinner-time, Iris."
"Thank you very much indeed, Aunt Jane," replied Iris.
That day at dinner Iris looked very grave. Orion was better, but was not present. Mrs. Dolman waited until the meal had come to an end, then she called the little girl to her side.
"Now, my dear Iris, what is all this mystery?" she asked.