It was later, up in the Stronghold, that Nell drew near to Ted.
"Mother and dad are so surprised and inquisitive," she began. "They can't think how we knew about those shares, you see." She paused. "If it hadn't been for you, dad would have sold out—I don't understand a bit—but he says it would have been for quite a little, we—we couldn't have gone back to Kilbrannan."
There was a little pause.
Denis strolled up to them.
"Ted," Nell said, "you will spend all your vacations with us, won't you? Except just a week here and there for other people—won't you?"
He laughed uncomfortably.
"I know I've been pretty good at poking myself in here—" he began.
"Teddie!" Nell ejaculated.
"Don't be such a fool!" Denis exclaimed angrily.
"Well, anyhow, your people—"