"Good lad," commented Sir Percival. "My cards are wealth and fame, London and Drury Lane."
"Mine are the girl's honesty and Tom Moore."
"Tom Moore?" repeated the other, inquiringly.
"Yes," answered Brooking, "for if Bessie Dyke does go to London with you as her patron, I 'll bring Tom Moore there and be his."
"Just as you like," said Sir Percival.
Reaching the door of the schoolhouse a moment later, the two bloods knocked vigorously and stood on the stone threshold, waiting patiently for a response from the interior. As this was not forthcoming, after another moment's delay, Sir Percival opened the door and led the way into the schoolroom.
Chapter Seven
TOM MOORE OBLIGES A FRIEND AND GETS IN TROUBLE
"Can it be Mistress Bessie has departed for the day?" said Sir Percival, surveying the deserted room with no little disappointment.
"I think not," replied his lordship, imitating his companion's look of investigation. "As I thought, Sir Percival! There is her hat."