Do you mind if I tune it, and try the strings ?" Ronnie's pleasure and enthusiasm were easily rekindled.
"Do," he said.

"I am grateful.

I do not even know the required notes." Aubrey, leaning forward, carefully lifted the instrument, resting it against his knees.

He took a tuning-fork from his pocket.
"It is tuned in fifths," he said.

"The open strings are A, D, G, C.You can remember them, because they stand for 'Allowable Delights Grow Commonplace'; or, read the other way up: 'Courage Gains Desired Aims.'" With practised skill he rapidly tightened the four strings into harmony; then, after carefully rosining the bow, rasped it with uncertain touch across them.