"Motor Matt."
Mr. Merton was startled.
"Why," said he, "I thought he was hurt in that boathouse fire and couldn't be out of bed?"
"He's hurt, and only one-handed, but he's too plucky to stay out of the race."
"Probably," said Mr. Merton coolly, "the pay he receives is quite an item. I understand Motor Matt is poor, and out for all the money he can get."
"You have been wrongly informed, Merton. Not a word as to what he shall receive has passed between George and Motor Matt. The boys are friends."
"I'd be a little careful, if I were you, how I allowed my son to pick up with a needy adventurer."
"Motor Matt is neither needy nor an adventurer," said Mr. Lorry warmly. "I'm proud to have George on intimate terms with him."
"Oh, well," laughed Mr. Merton; "have a cigar."
Ethel was having a conversation along similar lines with Mrs. Merton, and she was as staunchly upholding Motor Matt as was her father. So earnestly did the girl speak that the elder lady drew back and eyed her through a lorgnette.