He spread them out on the table. William was interested. He could not see them properly from where he was. He leant forward through his frame. He could just see the words, “Peace and Prosperity....” He leant forward further. He leant forward too far. Accidentally attaching his frame round his neck on his way he descended heavily from the hatch. There was only one thing to do to soften his fall. He did it. He clutched at his uncle’s neck as he descended. A confused medley consisting of William, his uncle, the frame and his uncle’s chair rolled to the floor where they continued to struggle wildly.
“Oh, my goodness,” squealed the young man with the large nose hysterically.
Somehow in the mêlée that ensued William managed to preserve his frame. He arrived home breathless and dishevelled but still carrying his frame. He was beginning to experience a feeling almost akin to affection for this companion in adversity.
“What’s the matter?” said William’s father sternly. “What have you been doing?”
“Me?” said William in a voice of astonishment. “Me?”
“Yes, you,” said his father. “You come in here like a tornado, half dressed, with your hair like a neglected lawn——”
William hastily smoothed back his halo of stubby hair and fastened his collar.
“Oh, that,” he said lightly. “I’ve only jus’ been out—walking an’ things.”
Mrs. Brown looked up from her darning.
“I think you’d better go and brush your hair and wash your face and put on a clean collar, William,” she suggested mildly.