Much Ado About Peter

Peter and Billy, the two upper grooms at Willowbrook, were polishing the sides of the tallmail phaeton with chamois-skin rubbers and whistling, each a different tune, as theyworked. So intent were they upon this musical controversy that they were not aware ofMrs. Carter's approach until her shadow darkened the carriage-house doorway. Shegathered up her skirts in both hands and gingerly stepped inside. Peter had been swashingwater about with a liberal hand, and the carriage-house floor was damp."Where is Joe?" she inquired."He's out in the runway, ma'am, jumpin' Blue Gipsy. Shall I call him, ma'am?" Billyanswered, as the question appeared to be addressed to him."No matter," said Mrs. Carter, "one of you will do as well."She advanced into the room, walking as nearly as possible on her heels. It was something ofa feat; Mrs. Carter was not so light as she had been twenty-five years before. Peter followedher movements with a shade of speculative wonder in his eye; should she slip it would bean undignified exhibition. There was even a shade of hope beneath his respectful gaze."Why do you use so much water, Peter? Is it necessary to get the floor so wet?"