He was about to give vent to further pleasantries when he was stopped by the mysterious behaviour of Mr.Chalk, who, first laying a finger on his lip to ensure silence, frowned severely and nodded at the door leading to the kitchen.
The other three looked in the direction indicated.

The door stood half open, and the silhouette of a young woman in a large hat put the upper panels in shadow.

The captain rose and, with a vigorous thrust of his foot, closed the door with a bang.
"Eavesdropping," said Mr.Chalk, in a tense whisper.
"There'll be a rival expedition," said the captain, falling in with his mood.

"I've already warned that young woman off once.

You'd better start tonight." He leaned back in his chair and surveyed the company pleasantly.
Somewhat to Mr.Chalk's disappointment Mr.Tredgold began to discuss agriculture, and they were still on that theme when they rose to depart some time later.