The children invariably had a discussion about everything as soon as it was over. They called it "talking it out"; and after they had sinned and suffered punishment, their great delight was to come and coax the tutor "to talk it out." They would then criticize their own conduct and his, impartially, point out what they might have done, and what he might have done, and what ought to have been done on both sides. These discussions usually took place at the schoolroom tea, a meal which both tutor and children as a rule thoroughly enjoyed. Mr. Ellis was not bound to have tea with the twins, but they had politely invited him on the day of his arrival, explaining that their parents were out, and it would give them great pleasure to entertain him. Tea being ready, they took him to the schoolroom, where he found a square table, just large enough for four, daintily decorated with flowers, and very nice china. "We have to buy our own china, because we break so much," Angelica said, seeing that the tutor noticed it. "That was the kind of thing papa got for us"--indicating a hugely thick white cup and saucer, which stood on the mantelpiece on a stand of royal blue plush, and covered with a glass shade. "We broke the others, but we had that one mounted as a warning to him. Papa has no taste at all." The tutor's face was a study. It was the first of these remarks he had heard. The children decided that it would balance the table better if he poured out the tea, and he good-naturedly acquiesced, and sat down with Angelica on his right, and Diavolo on his left. The fourth seat opposite was unoccupied, but there was a cover laid, and he asked who was expected. "Oh, that is for the Peace Angel," said Diavolo casually. "Prevents difficulties at tea, you know," Angelica supplemented. "_We_ don't mind difficulties, but we thought you might object, so we asked his holiness"--indicating the empty chair--"to preserve order." Mr. Ellis did not at first appreciate the boon which was conferred on him by the presence of the Peace Angel, but he soon learnt to. "I am on my honour and thick bread and butter to-day," said Diavolo, looking longingly at the plentiful supply and variety of cakes on the table. "What does that mean exactly?" Mr. Ellis asked, pausing with the teapot raised to pour. "Why, you see, he was naughty this morning," Angelica explained. "And as mamma was going out, she put him on his honour, as a punishment, not to eat cake." "I've a good mind not to eat anything," said Diavolo, considering the plate of thick bread and butter beside him discontentedly. "Then you'll be cutting off your nose to vex your face," said Angelica. Diavolo caught up a piece of bread and butter to throw at her; but she held up her hand, crying: "I appeal to the Peace Angel!" "I forgot," said Diavolo, transferring the bread to his plate. The children studied the tutor during tea.