William did not
often speak like this; but when he did--
"Yes, Will. He shall have the little bedroom at the end of the hall. I
never used the room much, anyhow, and what few duds I have there shall
be cleared out to-morrow."
"Good! Now there are some other little details to arrange, then I'll
go down-stairs and tell Pete and Dong Ling. And, please to understand,
we're going to make this lad welcome--welcome, I say!"
"Yes, sir," said Bertram. Neither Kate nor Cyril spoke.
CHAPTER V
GETTING READY FOR BILLY
The Henshaw household was early astir on the day of Billy's expected
arrival, and preparations for the guest's comfort were well under way
before breakfast. The center of activity was in the little room at the
end of the hall on the second floor; though, as Bertram said, the whole
Strata felt the "upheaval."
By breakfast time Bertram with the avowed intention of giving "the
little chap half a show," had the room cleared for action; and after
that the whole house was called upon for contributions toward the room's
adornment. And most generously did most of the house respond. Even Dong
Ling slippered up-stairs and presented a weird Chinese banner which
he said he was "velly much glad" to give. As to Pete--Pete was in his
element. Pete loved boys. Had he not served them nearly all his life?
Incidentally it may be mentioned that he did not care for girls.
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