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"Hyacinth is incapable of deceit!" cried Sir Maurice splendidly.
The Terror did his best to look incapable of de-
ceit; and it was a very good best.
In some confusion Lady Ryehampton began to stammer: "Well, of c-c-c-course, if there's a c-c-cats' home—but Sir Maurice's senseless in-
terference—"
"Senseless interference! Do you call saving children from careless habits senseless interference?" cried Sir Maurice indignantly.
"You had no business to interfere without con-
sulting me," said Lady Ryehampton. Then, with a return of suspicion, she said: "But I want to see this cats' home—now!"
"I'll take you at once," said the Terror quickly, and politely he opened the door.
They all went, Mrs. Dangerfield snatching a hooded cloak, Sir Maurice his hat and coat from pegs in the hall as they went through it. When they came into the paddock their ears became aware of a distant high-pitched din; and the farther they went down it the louder and more horrible grew the din.