“Yes, of course, dear. That’s very thoughtful of you,” said Mrs. Brown, touched.
William spent the time before he started to the party inspecting his insect collection. He found that the spider had escaped and the earwig was stuck fast in the raspberry jam. He freed it, washed it, and christened it “Fred.” It was beginning to take Albert’s place in his affections.
Then he set off to Miss Lomas’ carrying his Valentine under his arm. He started out before Ethel and Robert because he wanted to begin his courtship of Miss Dobson before anyone else was in the field.
“WHAT IS IT, WILLIAM?” ASKED MISS DOBSON.
“A VALENTINE,” REPEATED WILLIAM. “MY valentine.”
Miss Lomas opened the door. She paled slightly as she saw William.
“Oh ... William,” she said without enthusiasm.
“I’ve come to tea,” William said, and added hastily, “I’ve been invited.”
“You’re rather early,” said Miss Lomas.
“Yes, I thought I’d come early so’s to be sure to be in time,” said William, entering and wiping his feet on the mat. “Which room’re we goin’ to have tea in?”