Al thought he spotted Dad's deer, um, stag to be precise, prancing down the staircase and sure enough, there he was. He gave the stag a look one usually reserved for teachers and parents of dubious authority but the promise of tea calmed him slightly.
"Dad insists on tea and company, after I part with my present company," he informed Peter. "I don't suppose it would be sensible to invite you, though he does make good tea, at least."