"Hallo, Jack! Good evening, Mrs.Burton! What! Alone ?" Jack laughed.

"Dot's in the kitchen.

Hi! little 'un! Bring some drinks!" Robin was on his feet, uttering low, jerky barks.

Dot put aside her saucepan and began to wash her hands.

She did not hasten to obey Jack's call, but when she turned to collect glasses on a tray she was trembling and her breath came quickly, as if from violent exercise.
Nevertheless she did not hesitate, but went straight through to the little parlour, carrying her tray with the jingling glasses upon it.
Fletcher Hill was facing her as she entered, a tall man, tough and muscular, with black hair that was tinged with grey, and a long stubborn jaw that gave him an indomitable look.