Penalties he had suffered at school, but this was a terrible experience, and now he was to let the other boys know that the swimming-pool was closed for a week.

At breakfast he made believe to be contented in mind, and asked in his best manner if his uncle had any errands for him in Westways or at the mills.

When the Captain said no and remarked further that if he wished to walk, he would find the wood-roads cooler than the highway John expressed himself grateful for his advice with such a complete return of his formal manner as came near to unmasking the inner amusement which the Squire was getting from the evident annoyance he was giving Mrs.Ann, who thought that he was needlessly irritating a boy who to her mind was hurt and sore.
"Come, Leila," she said rising.

"We may meet you in the village, John; and do get your hair cut, and see Mr.Spooner and tell him--no, I will write it." John was pleased to feel that he had other reasons for visiting Westways than his uncle's order.

He went down the avenue whistling, and in no hurry.
Leila had some dim comprehension of John's state of mind.