But what was that idiot John doing here?—the young master wanted to know. He coughed loudly and hung up his hat and his stick, to let them hear that he was there. The pair in the kitchen started. Louie sprang up, flung down her work, and ran out to him.
'Well,' said she breathlessly, 'have you got it?'
'Yes.'
She gave a little shriek of excitement.
'Show it then.'
'There's nothing to show but a cheque. It's all right. Is there anything for supper?'
'There's some bread and cheese and cold apple-pie in there,' said Louie, annoyed with him already; then, turning her head over her shoulder, 'Mr. Dalby, I'll trouble you to get them out.'
With awkward alacrity John flew to do her bidding. When the lad had ransacked the cupboard and placed all the viands it contained on the table, he looked at David. That young man, with a pucker in his brow, was standing by the fire with his hands in his pockets, making short answers to Louie's sharp and numerous questions.
'That's all I can find,' said John. 'Shall I run for something?'
'Thanks,' said David, still frowning, and sat him down, 'that 'll do.'