The young man turned a flaming face of fury on to him. William returned his gaze quite unabashed.
“I don’ mean I want you to shout,” said William, “but just speak so’s I can hear.”
The young man turned to Ethel.
“Can you get a wrap and come into the garden?” he said.
“Yes.... I’ve got one in the hall,” said Ethel, rising.
William fetched his coat and patiently accompanied them round the garden.
******
“What do people mean by sayin’ they’ll send a Valentine, Mother?” said William that evening. “I thought he was a sort of saint. I don’ see how you can send a saint to anyone, specially when he’s dead ’n in the Prayer Book.”
“Oh, it’s just a figure of speech, William,” said Mrs. Brown vaguely.
“A figure of what?” said William blankly.