And he was striding away with his long deerstalker step, when Mr. Hodson stopped him.
'Wait a bit, man; I will walk down to the loch with you.'
So Duncan went on, and the American and Ronald followed.
'Sharp this morning.'
'Rayther sharp.'
'But this must be a very healthy life of yours—out in the fresh air always—plenty of exercise—and so forth.'
'Just the healthiest possible, sir.'
'But monotonous a little?'
''Deed no, sir. A keeper need never be idle if he minds his business; there's always something new on hand.'
'Then we'll say it is a very enjoyable life, so long as your health lasts, and you are fit for the work?'