He frowned.

"I am back," he said hotly, "why do you not cheer?"

They opened their mouths, but the cheers would not come. He
overlooked it in his haste to tell the glorious tidings.

"Great news, boys," he cried, "I have brought at last a mother
for you all."

Still no sound, except a little thud from Tootles as he dropped
on his knees.

"Have you not seen her?" asked Peter, becoming troubled. "She
flew this way."

"Ah me!" once voice said, and another said, "Oh, mournful day."