It was the canon, whose rosy good-humoured countenance appeared in the
doorway whilst Sir Timothy was yet speaking.

"I hope I am not interrupting," he said, "but the ladies desired
me--that is, Lady Belstone and Miss Crewys desired me--to let you know
that tea was ready."

The canon had an innocent surprised face like a baby; he was
constitutionally timid and amiable, and his dislike of argument, or of
a loud voice, almost amounted to fear.

Sir Timothy mistook his nervousness for proper respect, and maintained
a distant but condescending graciousness towards him.

"I hear you came back by the afternoon train, Sir Timothy. A London
outing is a rare thing for you. I hope you enjoyed yourself," said the
canon, with a meaningless laugh.

"I transacted my business successfully, thank you," said Sir Timothy,
gravely.

"Brought back any fresh news of the war?"

"None at all."

"I hear the call for more men has been responded to all over the
country. It's a fine thing, so many young fellows ready and willing to
lay down their lives for their country."

"Very few young men, I believe," said Sir Timothy, frigidly, "can