It clambered up the tablecloth and began rushing all over the table, darting madly from one plate to another, seeking something to eat.
The children screamed with delight. Their grandmother was filled with a feeling of superstitious alarm. Linden and the young woman stood staring with astonishment at the unexpected visitor.
Before the kitten had time to do any damage, Owen caught hold of it and, despite its struggles, lifted it off the table.
“I found it in the street as I was coming along,” he said. “It seems to be starving.”
“Poor little thing. I’ll give it something,” exclaimed the young woman.
She put some milk and bread into a saucer for it and the kitten ate ravenously, almost upsetting the saucer in its eagerness, much to the amusement of the two children, who stood by watching it admiringly.
Their mother now handed Owen a cup of tea. Linden insisted on his sitting down and then began to talk about Hunter.
“You know I had to spend some time on them doors to make ’em look anything at all; but it wasn’t the time I took, or even the smoking what made ’im go on like that. He knows very well the time it takes. The real reason is that he thinks I was gettin’ too much money. Work is done so rough nowadays that chaps like Sawkins is good enough for most of it. Hunter shoved me off just because I was getting the top money, and you’ll see I won’t be the only one.”
“I’m afraid you’re right,” returned Owen. “Did you see Rushton when you went for your money?”
“Yes,” replied Linden. “I hurried up as fast as I could, but Hunter was there first. He passed me on his bike before I got half-way, so I suppose he told his tale before I came. Anyway, when I started to speak to Mr Rushton he wouldn’t listen. Said he couldn’t interfere between Mr Hunter and the men.”