Then he burst out petulantly: "Richard, there's something I must speak to you seriously about: the lateness of your hours in the morning.

I have noticed it with great regret.

It is not considerate to the servants and it cannot be healthy for you.

Such indolence too must be enervating to your mind." Dick forbore to remind his father that he was usually out of the house before seven.
"Father," he said, at once a very model of humility, "I will endeavour to reform." Mr.Hazlewood concealed his embarrassment at teatime under a show of over-work.

He had a great deal to do--just a moment for a cup of tea--no more.