Lad knew that.

He could not have told how he knew it.

In earlier years, he had known their car was bringing them home to him, while it was still a mile or more distant from the Place;--had known and had cantered forth to meet it.
He was too tired, just now, to do that.

At least, until he had slept for a moment or two.

Always, until now, the Mistress and the Master had been first, with Lad.