"I did speak of such a plan," the Doctor responded moderately.
"I wish you would fix the day. I shall be glad to have you both out-of-the-way for a few hours. For house-cleaning purposes."
Another shock of surprise! Theodosia had always declared on such occasions that Lettice could not be spared.
"Would you like to go, Lettice?" The girl's face glowed. "Well, I am willing enough. Where shall it be? To the top of West Hill? I don't mind if we name to-morrow. The sooner the better this fine weather."
Luncheon was over, and Dr. Bryant arose, to find Lettice at his elbow.
"Ought I?" she whispered.
"Ought you—what?"
"Have such a treat, just now—when you are not pleased with me?"
The Doctor looked steadily into her eyes.
"If I believed that you really had done it, child, I should demur. But—I do not. Breakfast at 8.30, sharp!"