“No,” I answered. Then, guessing he might have the same antipathies as Tempest, I volunteered—

“Crofter’s not asked.”

My companion opened his eyes. “Indeed—why?”

“I don’t know. Only I know Tempest wouldn’t have gone if he had been. Please which way do I go?”

“What objection has Tempest to Crofter?”

“I don’t know—I suppose he’s a beast. Tempest hates beasts.”

The boy laughed.

“He must be very fond of you,” said he.

“Yes,” said I, “we’re old chums; we were at Dangerfield together, and both got ex—”

There I was, after Tempest’s warning about keeping my exhibition dark.