He opened the drawing-room door.

“I am so very sorry, Mrs. Otter,” he said humbly.

They all rose from their seats; but it was Jason who spoke first.

“ Everything’s only waiting,” he chuckled grimly. “That sofa is a better place for waiting than a headmaster’s study!”

“My son doesn’t mean that you’ve kept us a minute,” said Mrs. Otter. “Dimity’s only just ready. But we’ll sit down at the table while you wash your hands; so that you can feel quite happy.”

“Don’t be long, Solent!” cried Darnley, as Wolf turned to go upstairs. “Mother won’t let us touch a morsel till you come.”