with my pocket-book. Mind, I ask no impertinent questions; but, if
you have no objection, I should like to know what gained me the
honour of that compliment."

"Norman?" said Ethel interrogatively, and blushing in emulation of
her brother, who was crimson.

"I'll find it," said he, rushing off with a sort of nod and sign,
that conveyed to Ethel that there was no help for it.

So, with much confusion, she whispered into her papa's ear that
Norman had been telling her something he guessed about Mr.
Ernescliffe.

Her father at first smiled, a pleased amused smile. "Ah! ha! so
Master June has his eyes and ears open, has he? A fine bit of gossip
to regale you with on his return!"

"He told me to say not one word," said Ethel.

"Right--mind you don't," said Dr. May, and Ethel was surprised to see
how sorrowful his face became. At the same moment Norman returned,
still very red, and said, "I've put out the pocket-book, papa. I
think I should tell you I repeated what, perhaps, you did not mean me
to hear--you talked to yourself something of pitying Ernescliffe."
The doctor smiled again at the boy's high-minded openness, which must
have cost an effort of self-humiliation. "I can't say little
pitchers have long ears, to a May-pole like you, Norman," said he; "I
think I ought rather to apologise for having inadvertently tumbled in
among your secrets; I assure you I did not come to spy you."