Arthur came running upstairs, and Hamish met him at the chamber door.
Arthur, who appeared strangely agitated, began speaking in a
half-whisper, unconscious that his sister was within. She heard every
word.

"Judy says some young man wants you, Hamish! I fear it may be the
fellow to serve the writ. What on earth is to be done?"

"Did Judy say I was at home?"

"Yes; and has handed him into the study, to wait. Did you not hear her
calling to you?"

"I can't--see him," Hamish was about to say. "Yes, I will see him," he
added after a moment's reflection. "Anything rather than have a
disturbance which might come to my mother's ears. And I suppose if he
could not serve it now, he would watch for me in the morning."

"Shall I go down first, and hear what he has to say?"

"Arthur, boy, it would do no good. I have brought this upon myself, and
must battle with it. A Channing cannot turn coward!"

"But he may act with discretion," said Arthur. "I will speak to the
man, and if there's no help for it, I'll call you."

Down flew Arthur, four stairs at a time. Hamish remained with his body
inside his chamber door, and his head out. I conclude he was listening;
and, in the confusion, he had probably totally forgotten Constance.
Arthur came bounding up the stairs again, his eyes sparkling.