“Minerva, here’s some silver to add to your collection. And don’t ever make the mistake of leaving the Vernons. They are the salt of the earth. They may not be rich, but I am sure they’re kind, and if you know when you’re well off you’ll stay with them. I’ve known Mr. Vernon ever since he was a boy, and if I was looking for a position like yours I’d try to get one with him. And Mrs. Vernon is just as good. You stay by them and they’ll stay by you.” “’Deed I will,” said Minerva with the unction of one who has felt a revival of religious feeling at a camp meeting. The burglar had actually aroused in her a sense of loyalty. I was sorry to see him go. I’ve known many an honest man who wasn’t half as interesting, and I’ve known many an interesting man who was not much more honest, although I never had any words with a confessed burglar before. I actually found myself saying “Good luck to you,” as he shouldered his bag and went off down the tree-bordered road in the silver moonlight. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CHAPTER V THE CONSTABLE CALLS. NEXT morning we slept late, but when Mrs. Vernon and I finally awoke we heard no sounds in the kitchen. “I have a headache,” said Ethel. “That midnight supper didn’t agree with me.” “Why you didn’t eat anything.” “No, but I can’t sit up late and feel good for anything in the morning. I suppose Minerva feels the same as I do.” “Yes, but as she is paid to forget her feelings, I suppose she’ll get up and get breakfast.” “Do you mind calling her?” asked Ethel, and again donning my dressing gown I went to the foot of the stairs and called, “Minerva! Minerva, it’s half past eight o’clock.” No answer. I went up stairs and stood outside her door. “Minerva, it’s time to get up. I know you must be sleepy, but it’s half past eight.” “Mist. Vernon,” came a languid response, “I don’ feel like I could cook this morning, I’m so tired.” What was this? Was it insubordination? Perhaps it was, but I did not mean to recognise it as such. Who had prepared the midnight supper without a word? Minerva. Was I one to forget benefits conferred? No. Did I want to keep Minerva at all hazards? Yes. Was it wise to let Ethel know of the state of affairs? No.