"I hope Mr. Flutter is not in trouble again," said Belle quickly.
"Oh, no. Fred is only trying to say something sharp," said I.
"Come with me; I will take care of you, Mr. Flutter," said Belle, taking my arm and marching me out into the sitting-room, where a long table was heaped full of inviting eatables. She sat me down by her side, and I felt comparatively safe. But Fred and Miss Smith were just opposite and they disconcerted me.
"Mr. Flutter," said the hostess when it came my turn, "will you have tea or coffee?"
"Yes'm," said I.
"Tea or coffee?"
"If you please," said I.
"Oh, excuse me; coffee, ma'am."
"Cream and sugar, Mr. Flutter?"