"You can call one now," said I, "for I'm going to announce myself. Don't tell me I'll have to walk over your dead body first, for it won't do."
I know it is not looked upon as a friendly act to interrupt a man in his work and to disregard the orders given to his servants, but I was irritated by all this Grand Llama atmosphere of mysterious seclusion. Besides, I had been walking and felt just a little hot and dusty and thirsty, and I felt all the hotter, dustier and thirstier for my argument with Ellen.
"I'll announce myself," I said, and marched to the door of Adrian's study. It was locked. I rapped at the door.
"Who's there?" came Adrian's voice.
"Me. Hilary."
"What's the matter?"
"I happen to be a guest under your roof," said I, with a touch of temper.
"Wait a minute," said he.
I waited about two. Then the door was unlocked and opened and I strode in upon Adrian who looked rather pale and dishevelled.
"Why the deuce," said I, "did you keep me hanging about like that?"