Dick, under cover of his _exeats_ marched ostentatiously in.

The other two, in a far more modest and shy manner, entered by their hands and knees, on receipt of a signal from their leader that the coast was clear.
Heathcote deemed it prudent not to exhibit himself in the Den, and therefore retired to Pledge's study as the place least likely to be dangerous.
Pledge was there working.
"Hullo, youngster," said he, "what's been your little game this evening?
Been to a prayer meeting ?" "No," said Heathcote laconically.
It was no part of Pledge's manner to appear inquisitive.

He saw there was a mystery, and knew better than to appear in the slightest degree anxious to solve it.
He had as yet heard nothing of the newly-formed alliance in low life, and attributed Heathcote's uncommunicativeness either to shame for some discreditable proceeding, or else to passing ill-humour.

In either case he reckoned on knowing all about it before long.
Heathcote was very uncomfortable.

It had not occurred to him till just now that Pledge would resent the return of his allegiance to Dick as an act of insubordination.