“I promise you,” said I, “I only had 2 shillings 6 pence change. Really, Crofter, do believe me.”
“I believe every word you say,” said Crofter, with a smile. “I have every reason to, haven’t I?”
“But, really and truly—”
“What’s the use of saying any more? Of course, it’s all really and truly. I’ve no doubt Tempest believes it too.”
“Please let me see the bills,” pleaded I; “I’ll show you I’m right.”
“Unfortunately Tempest has them. I dare say he will be delighted.”
“You haven’t told him about this, have you?” I gasped, in helpless misery.
“I’m going to; it’s too good a joke to be kept to myself; I don’t suppose he’ll mind. Certainly he won’t be surprised.”
“Oh, Crofter, for goodness’ sake, don’t tell him this!” said I, blundering on into an appearance of guiltiness of which I was quite innocent. “I’m wanting so awfully to be friends with him again. I’ve given him back all I got out of the shops; and it will spoil everything if you tell him this, really—it isn’t true either.”
Crofter laughed pleasantly.