Hamish at this moment came in, carrying the books. “Are you ready, sir? There’s not much to do, this evening.”
“Ready at any time, Hamish.”
Hamish laid the books before him on the table, and sat down. Arthur left the room. Mr. Channing liked to be alone with Hamish when the accounts were being gone over.
Mrs. Channing was in the drawing-room, some of the children with her. Arthur entered. “Mrs. Channing,” cried he, with mock ceremony, “allow me to introduce you to the assistant-organist of the cathedral.”
She smiled, supposing it to be some joke. “Very well, sir. He can come in!”
“He is in, ma’am. It is myself.”
“Is young Mr. Jupp there?” she asked; for he sometimes came home with Arthur.
“Young Mr. Jupp has disappeared from public life, and I am appointed in his place. It is quite true.”
“Arthur!” she remonstrated.
“Mamma, indeed it is true. Mr. Williams has made me the offer, and Mr. Galloway has consented to allow me time to attend the week-day services; and papa is glad of it, and I hope you will be glad also.”