But where is father ?' The boy looked discontentedly at his watch.

'He vowed he'd be here by five.

I must be off by a few minutes after eight.' 'The train's late.

He'll be here directly,' said Pamela confidently; 'and I say--don't you hurt Alice's feelings, old man.' 'Don't you preach, Pam!' said the boy, laughing.

And a few minutes afterwards Pamela, passing the open door of the drawing-room, heard him handsomely thanking his elder sisters.