CHAPTER IX

WHAT HAPPENED IN THE SECOND ROOM As they trooped into the ancient, strangely-coloured hall their voices instinctively became lowered and joking ceased. Blanche drew her friend aside. “It’s a lovely place, Billy! . . . Well, did you speak to him again?” “Yes, it’s all right—he’s going to let us have it.” “How did you manage it?” “I didn’t manage it at all; the offer came from him.” “Really?” “Certainly—why shouldn’t it? So now we shall live here, I suppose.” “Congratulations, my dear! . . . I expect you’ll have to s…