It really is the merest red tape that we mayn't use the books.

I shall just take French leave and borrow it." Ulyth went at once to the library.

Helen had evidently been at work there, for the list lay open, with a sheet of paper near, recording the condition of some of the copies.

A glue-pot and some rolls of transparent gummed edging showed that Helen had been busy mending battered covers and torn pages.

She probably meant to finish them after tea.