The sound of his voice caused the smaller boy to scream outright, and even the elder trembled a little as he kept himself full front to the enemy.
“You little donkeys, I’m a schoolboy myself,” said Jeffreys. This announcement had a magical effect. The younger brother stopped short in his scream, and Freddy boldly took two steps forward.
“Are you a boy?” inquired the latter.
“Of course I am. I was in the top form. I’m older than you, though.”
“I’m ten,” replied the proud owner of that venerable age.
“I’m nine in February,” chimed in the still-fluttered junior.
“I’m about as old as you two put together. How old’s that, Freddy?”
“Nineteen,” said Freddy.
By this time Jeffreys had gradually descended the bank and stood close to the two small brothers.
“Bravo, young ’un, you can do sums, I see!”