How is Mike?
Why isn't he with you ?" "Mike is quite well, thank you," said Avery.

"And he is kept chained up." "What an infernal shame!" burst from Piers.

"I'd sooner shoot a dog than keep him on a chain." "So would I!" said Avery impulsively.
The words were out before she could check them.

It was a subject upon which she found it impossible to maintain her reticence.
Piers grinned triumphantly and thrust out a boyish hand.

"Shake!" he said.