Kenny nodded his approval.
When the clock struck nine he was in splendid fettle, brogue and all.
"For Ireland's harpers," he was boasting with a reckless air of pride, "were better than any harpers in the world."
"Liars?" asked Adam blankly.
Kenny found his occasional pretense of deafness trying in the extreme.
"Harpers!" he repeated in a loud voice. "And you heard me before."
Adam nodded.
"What do you mean," demanded Kenny suspiciously, "that you did hear me or you didn't?"
"I did," said Adam suavely. "Both times. Go on with the story."
Somewhat nettled, Kenny obeyed. Conscious, the minute he began, of a muffled whistle, he glanced sharply at his host and found his glance returned with a guileless air of inquiry.