"And there's a fire which plainly says, 'Why don't you let me toast you some muffins,'" added Hermia.
"Sweet brought me up some tea about six o'clock," said John; "but I daresay I can manage another cup."
"Of course you can, uncle," rejoined Hermia. "Why, I have known you drink four cups many a time, and then ask for more."
"That must have been when I was very thirsty indeed; but little girls should never tell tales out of school."
Presently Hermia was on her knees toasting a couple of muffins at the sitting-room fire, for at Nairn Cottage the kitchen fire was allowed to go out after the early two o'clock dinner, when the girl, who came to do the rough work in the morning, was dismissed for the day.
"I left your father at the office," remarked John to Clement. "He has been to London, and I fancy that he did not get back till the seven o'clock train."
"I wish he would not stay so late, night after night," answered Clement. "Have you not noticed how care-worn he has been looking of late?"
"I can't say that I have remarked much difference in him, but that may be because I see him every day."
Clement shook his head.
"He has certainly aged very much of late. I was quite pained the other day to see him so worn and anxious-looking. I wish he would take a couple of months' rest right away from business."