"It's my horse's name," Dr. Lavendar told him, so kindly that David did not hear the chuckle in his voice. But the color was hot in the child's face for many minutes. He had nothing to say for the rest of the pull up the hill, except briefly, "'Bye," when Mr. Pryor alighted at the green gate of a foot-path that led up to the Stuffed Animal House.
"I'm very much obliged for the lift, Dr. Lavendar," he said in his coldly courteous voice, and turned quickly at an exclamation behind him.
"Lloyd!"
"I've brought your brother home, Mrs. Richie," said Dr. Lavendar.
Helena Richie was standing inside the hedge, her face radiant.
"Oh, Lloyd!" she said again breathlessly.
Mr. Pryor laughed and shook hands with her in somewhat formal greeting.
"Do you see my other passenger?" Dr. Lavendar called out. "He came with your brother. David, suppose you shake hands with Mrs. Richie? I generally take my hat off, David, when I shake hands with a lady."
"I don't, sir," said David, gently, putting a hand out across the wheel. Mrs. Richie had not noticed the little boy; but when she took his hand her eyes lingered on his face, and suddenly she drew him forward and kissed him.
David bore it politely, but he looked over her head at Mr. Pryor.
"Mister, Alice is nineteen."