Page 61 (1/2)

Master George shouted the last word, folding his ar so fire the only sound in the room Even Sato seemed impressed Tick felt scared to s or breathe, afraid of how Master George would take it

"All right, then," the Englishman finally said "If from this point forward you’d be so kind as to act like the brave souls Ito brush unseen dust off his suit jacket "Now, youpeople such as yourself Am I correct?"

No one said a word, afraid to rock the boat again

"Coe said "Only children would be afraid to speak up"

Everyone spoke at once at this reht about it, actually But now you ood question that I think I’d like to know the answer to very e"

"Much better, much better I knew you blokes from America were smart Now--"

He was interrupted by a loud noise fro two silver trays stacked with enorry?" he announced loudly "I’ve prepared generous portions for everyone" Wonderful s out plates and utensils, alot roasted duck, thrice-baked potatoes, succulent legs of lamb with basil and--my favorite--roast beef Plus a slice of cherry cheesecake" Panting, he put down a plate for himself then handed the last one to Tick "Eat up!"

Tick needed no urging After a quicklyin as he balanced the plate on his lap The food was tender and hot, juicy and rich Iton the plate seemed the most delicious stuff he’d ever put in his ers froard

"Well," Master George said, "I’lad to see we still have our appetites Now, if I may, I will continue our discussion About the letters--the reason I wrote only to youngsters is because what you’re about to hear would never be believed by a cantankerous old grown-up They’re far too set in their ways, thinking they’re all s in a new batch of recruits, and I knew theyand spry, ready to take on the world, as it were"

"Uh, Master George?" Rutger said through a large er?"

"Don’t you think we should, uh, "

Master George snapped his fingers and waved his hands in the air "Yes, yes, you’re right, of course Thank you, on we go" He folded his hands in front of him and looked down at the floor "I shall now tell you everything, froan his story, the craziest, wackiest,Tick had ever heard And he loved every minute of it