“And when I give the signal you’re to go into the library and look at picture books,” Burgess added.
“That’s not fair!” said Fullerton. “We want to see the end of it!”
“I’m so nervous,” said Colton, “I’m likely to scream at any minute!”
“Don’t do it!” Burgess admonished. “The new House Committee is very touchy about noise in the private dining rooms, and besides I’ve got a lot of scenery set for the rest of the evening, and I don’t want you fellows to spoil it.”
“It begins to look,” remarked the governor, glancing at his watch, “as though some of our scenery might have got lost.”
“He’d hardly bolt,” Burgess replied; “he knows of no reason why he should! I told the doorman to send him right up. When he comes there will be no more references to the Avery case: you all understand?”
They murmured their acquiescence, and a solemn hush fell upon them as they turned involuntarily toward the vacant chair.
“This will never do!” exclaimed the governor, who seemed to be the one tranquil person in the room. “We must be telling stories and giving an imitation of weary business men having a jolly time. But I’m tired of talking; some of the good story-tellers ought to be stirred up.”
With a little prodding Fullerton took the lead, but was able to win only grudging laughter. Colton was trying his hand at diverting them when they were startled by a knock. Burgess was at the door instantly and flung it open.