The latter saw himself superseded with an extreme bad grace, and was in no hurry to find a new job.
Mahony's nag was in good condition, and he covered the distance in a trifle over six hours.
He had evidently hit on the family washing-day.

The big boiler in the yard belched clouds of steam; the female inmates of the Hotel were gathered in the out-house: he saw them through the door as he rode in at the gate.

All three girls stood before tubs, their sleeves rolled up, their arms in the lather.

At his apparition there was a characteristic chorus of cheeps and shrills and the door was banged to.
Mrs.Beamish alone came out to greet him.

She was moist and blown, and smelt of soap.
Not in a mood to mince matters, he announced straightway the object of his visit.