I shall be through with the shutting-up in about twenty minutes, and I've had my supper, so there won't be anything to wait for." Katherine felt better when she had eaten her supper; the thought of what was before her was less of an ordeal, and she was more than ever determined that Oily Dave and the other man must be outwitted, cost what it might.

There was to be no night school that night, so, directly the door of the store was shut and barred, Miles and Katherine were able to set out.

The twins were in bed, and fast asleep.

Mrs.Burton was still busy in her father's room, so there was only Phil to look after things.
"Tell Nellie when she comes out of Father's room that Miles and I have got some work to do outside which may take us an hour or more," Katherine said to her youngest brother.

"Meanwhile you must just make yourself as useful as possible--clear away supper, wash the cups and plates, take care of the fire, and look after things generally.