"He acts so unnaturally ," moaned Mrs. de Vere Carter. "Try really to think you're a wolf, darling. Put some spirit into it. Be— animated ."
William scowled at her and once more muttered monotonously his opening lines:
" A wolf am I—a wolf on mischief bent,
To eat this little maid is my intent. "
"Take a breath after 'bent,' darling. Now say it again."
William complied, introducing this time a loud and audible gasp to represent the breath. Mrs. de Vere Carter sighed.
"Now, Cuthbert, darling, draw your little sword and put your arm round Joan. That's right."
Cuthbert obeyed, and his clear voice rose in a high chanting monotone.
" Avaunt! Begone! You wicked wolf, away!
This gentle maid shall never be your prey.
