Jean Webster

Much Ado About Peter Jean Webster

Peter and Billy, the two upper grooms at Willowbrook, were polishing the sides of the tall mail phaeton with chamois-skin rubbers and whistling, each a different tune, as they worked. So intent were they upon this musical controversy that they were not aware of Mrs. Carter's approach until her shadow darkened the carriage-house doorway. She gathered up her skirts in both hands and gingerly stepped inside. Peter had been swashing water 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?" Billy answered, 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 of a feat; Mrs. Carter was not so light as she had been twenty-five years before. Peter followed her movements with a shade of speculative wonder in his eye; should she slip it would be an 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?" "It runs off, ma'am." "It is very unpleasant to walk in." Peter winked at Billy with his off eye, and stood at attention until she should have finished her examination of the newly washed phæton.