"Is it true?" asked Adela, curiously.

"I am not in a position to say, madam." Hill's voice sounded sardonic.

"That means he doesn't know," explained Jack. "Look here, man! If you've
ridden all the way from Wallacetown to-day you can't go back to Trelevan
to-night. Your animal must be absolutely used up--if you are not."

"Oh, I think not. We are both tougher than that." Hill turned towards
him. "Don't mix it too strong, Jack! I hardly ever touch it except under
your roof."

"I am indeed honoured," laughed Jack. "But if you're going to spend the
night you'll be able to sleep it off before you face your orderly in the
morning."

"Do stay!" said Adela, hastening to follow up her husband's suggestion.
"We should all like it. I hope you will."

Hill bowed towards her with stiff ceremony. "You are very kind, madam.
But I don't like to give trouble, and I am expected back."

"By whom?" questioned Jack. "No one that counts, I'll swear. Your orderly
won't break his heart if you take a night out. He'll probably do the same
himself. And no one else will know. We'll let you leave as early as you
like in the morning, but not before. Come, that's settled, isn't it? Go
and get Rupert a shake-down, little 'un, and give him a decent feed with
plenty of corn in it! No, let her, man; let her! She likes doing it, eh,
Dot girl?"