There was consternation. I knew that I was called by that affectionate, if very undignified title; but this was the first time it was spoken to my face; and there was horror on the faces of the young ones. But it carried the day. I looked around, and saw some white waistcoats peeping shyly behind a glass door.
"The boys are all gone home, I believe?" I said innocently.
"Oh, long and merry ago, Father. The lazy fellows wouldn't wait."
"And all the dancing will be amongst yourselves?"
Chorus: "Of course, Father!"
"And no waltzes or continental abominations?"
Chorus: "Oh dear, no!"
"And you'll all be in your beds at twelve o'clock?"
Chorus: "To the minute, Father."
"Well, God forgive me, but what can I do? Go on, you little heathens, and—"