“What you laughing at, dad?” Archie asked, a little offended, if a quick flush meant anything.
“I’m sure,” his father replied, “that the lady wouldn’t mind.”
“No,” said Archie, grave with his little problem of honour; “but I wouldn’t let a lady in for a thing like that.”
“Son,” said Sir Archibald, now all at once turning very serious, “you have better security than your pony and sloop.”
Archie looked up in bewilderment.
“It is your integrity,” Sir Archibald explained, gently, “and your efficiency.”
Archie flushed with pleasure.
“These are great things to possess,” said Sir Archibald.
“Thank you, sir,” said Archie, rising in acknowledgment of this hearty compliment.
The lad was genuinely moved.