Kathy, who was a little alarmed at Sarah’s description of the new guest, decided to keep out of sight until she could meet him with the full support of her family. Sarah’s “Well, that’s one brow you won’t smooth without getting your fingers rapped” had not been encouraging. Danny, who was hopping with curiosity, was obliged to go to school without catching a glimpse of the stranger, and it was Mary from the village who answered the nursery bell when it rang at ten o’clock precisely.“Would you be wantin’ anythin?” she asked, eyeing the new boarder with interest.“Only to let someone know I’m ready to have my room done now,” he replied. “Is that your job?”“Sure, it’s annyone’s job,” she answered cheerfully, and at his look of surprise, explained further: “I do Master Danny’s room, he being at school, and Miss Dearlove’s, and Miss Emma gives a hand with a duster, and Miss Sarah, too, when she’s not in the stables. Miss Dearlove makes her own bed, but she’s cranky, that one.”It sounded altogether too social, and he said firmly: “Well, I would be obliged if you would attend to mine at this hour every morning.”Her fine eyes opened widely.“Och, the rooms are done anny time.
