Chapter 52

Inadvertently, old Pybus trod on the cat. Pussy should not have been there on the rug in front of the fire-place; she should have been out hunting or being hunted. The Venerable said “Damn,” echoing poor pussy’s squawk. He bent down to make amends. “Well—you shouldn’t have been there, you silly.” While stroking Sarah’s head he heard the door of Lance’s bedroom open. “Hallo! What’s that?” “I trod on the cat—my son.” “Anything wrong, grandpater?” “No. I thought I had forgotten to lock the door. I’m just making it up …