"The whole house is heated by steam," said Denry. "No fireplaces."
"No fireplaces!"
"No! No fireplaces. No grates to polish, ashes to carry down, coals to
carry up, mantelpieces to dust, fire-irons to clean, fenders to polish,
chimneys to sweep."
"And suppose he wants a bit of fire all of a sudden in summer?"
"Gas stove in every room for emergencies," said Denry.
She glanced into a room.
"But," she cried, "it's all complete, ready! And as warm as toast."
"Yes," said Denry, "he gave orders. I can't think why on earth he isn't
here."
At that moment an electric bell rang loud and sharp, and Mrs Machin
jumped.
"There he is!" said Denry, moving to the door.
"Bless us! What will he think of us being here like?" Mrs Machin
mumbled.
"Pooh!" said Denry, carelessly. And he opened the door.
V
Three persons stood on the newly-washed marble step--Mr and Mrs
Cotterill and their daughter.
"Oh! Come in! Come in! Make yourselves quite at home. That's what
_we're_ doing," said Demo in blithe greeting; and added, "I suppose
he's invited you too?"
And it appeared that Mr Cecil Wilbraham had indeed invited them too.
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