“Well, has the old fellow departed? How are the knuckles? Is he any good? He looks a miserable little shrimp.”
“He’s a delightful teacher! I like him immensely! He told me I could be a splendid player if I would only work hard enough.”
“Oh, well, I could have told you as much as that myself.” It was clear that Rex thought it the polite thing to inquire about the success of the music lesson, but also that his attention was fixed on some other subject. “Look here!” he said suddenly, “the mater and Edna always rest for an hour or two in the afternoon, and I promised to look after you until they come down. Would you like a real, genuine—bloodcurdling adventure?”
Norah gave a shriek of delight. “Rather, just! I should think I would. What is it?”
“You can pin up your dress, and put on a big old coat?”
“Yes—yes!”
“And you won’t mind if you do get grimy?”
“Not a bit I’m used to—I mean, I can soon wash myself clean again.”
“Come along then! Follow me, and tread lightly. I don’t want anyone to see where we are going.” And Rex led the way down the cellar stairs, while Norah followed, afire with curiosity.