She looked at Hill appealingly as they drew near. He turned instantly to
Harley.

"Go ahead, will you, and tell them to stop work? We can't hear ourselves
speak in this."

"I'll come with you, Mr. Harley," said Adela, promptly. "I want to see
the machines going."

Harley paused for a moment. "You know your way, Mr. Hill?" he said.

Hill nodded with a hint of impatience. "Yes, yes. I was here only the
other day."

"Very good," said Harley. "But don't forget to turn to the right when you
get down the steps. The other way is too steep for ladies."

He was gone with the words and Adela with him, openly delighted to have
escaped from her solemn escort, and ready for any adventure that might
present itself.

Dot looked after her for a moment, and then back at Hill. "She'll be all
right, won't she?" she asked.

"Of course she will!" said Hill.

"Then shall we wait a minute till the noise stops?" she suggested.

Hill paused, though not very willingly. "There is nothing to be nervous