The “Reindeer” presently landed its distinguished passenger. Colonel Ellison stepped forward and favored the former tutor with a tremendous frown.
“Redfern,” he said, sternly, “what is the meaning of this? What business had you to run away?”
“He didn’t,” interposed Jack Lyons, calmly.
“Explain yourself, young man.”
“Well, it was this way,” said Jack. “Won’t you have a seat, sir?”
“No!” said Colonel Ellison, sharply.
“I took the ‘Gray Gull’ out myself.”
“Thought the river was free; the air is,” said Joe, cheerfully.
“You attempted to run away. Answer me—did you not expect to pick up my ward and have him continue with you, in spite of my express wish to the contrary?”
“No, sir—not exactly.”