''
The panic which ensued was not confined to the Major.
``Would you like to go and see if cook has got your dinner
ready?'' suggested Lady Blemley hurriedly, affecting to
ignore the fact that it wanted at least two hours to
Tobermory's dinner-time.
``Thanks,'' said Tobermory, ``not quite so soon after my
tea. I don't want to die of indigestion.''
``Cats have nine lives, you know,'' said Sir Wilfrid
heartily.
``Possibly'', answered Tobermory; ``but only one liver.''
``Adelaide!'' said Mrs. Cornett, ``do you mean to
encourage that cat to go out and gossip about us in the
servants' hall?''
The panic had indeed become general. A narrow ornamental
balustrade ran in front of most of the bedroom windows at
the Towers, and it was recalled with dismay that this had
formed a favourite promenade for Tobermory at all hours,
whence he could watch the pigeons---and heaven knew what
else besides. If he intended to become reminiscent in his
present outspoken strain the effect would be something more
than disconcerting. Mrs. Cornett, who spent much time at
her toilet table, and whose complexion was reputed to be of
a nomadic though punctual disposition, looked as ill at ease
as the Major.
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