`` Suppose he was lame and it was sloshy , and he made a call and came back . How long would that take ? '' asked Jill impatiently . `` Well , in that case , I should say two or three hours . But it 's impossible to tell exactly , unless you know how lame the fellow was , and how long a call he made , '' said Frank , who liked to be accurate . `` Jack could n't do it in less , could he ? '' `` He used to run up that hilly road for a breather , and think nothing of it . It would be a long job for him now , poor little chap , for his leg often troubles him , though he hates to own it . '' Jill lay back and laughed , a happy little laugh , as if she was pleased about something , and Frank looked over his shoulder to ask questions in his turn . `` What are you laughing at ? '' `` Ca n't tell . '' `` Why do you want to know about Hill District ? Are you going there ? '' `` Wish I could ! I 'd soon have it out of him . '' `` Who ? '' `` Never mind . Please push up my table . I must write a letter , and I want you to post it for me to-night , and never say a word till I give you leave . '' `` Oh , now you are going to have secrets and be mysterious , and get into a mess , are you ? ''
and XXXXX looked down at her with a suspicious air , though he was intensely curious to know what she was about .
Frank Jack Jill breather chap hours leg letter secrets troubles