Anstice dropped into a chair with her happy easy laugh.
"I think you'll find no change in me. How do you think the children look?"
"Oh, they're all right."
He was regarding her with a slow, direct gaze. Anstice felt her cheek flush, though she was angry with herself for showing any emotion.
"I heard from your Cousin Lucy about a month ago, wanting to know the length of my desertion. She had been up here for a day or two."
"Yes, on her way to some friends in Northumberland. It was just before the first snow came. I made her as comfortable as I could, and quite enjoyed her visit."
"Well, you show no signs of strain; she seemed to think it was all too much for you alone."
"I have been, and am, very happy. Of course difficulties have arisen. Cousin Lucy was here when Bob Falkland was taken ill, and I had to get some one to help about the sheep. Hal Cross has been working over at the farm, for poor Eliza almost collapsed. I knew you must be on your way home, so could not write. Bob has had double pneumonia and nearly died. But he is much better now."
"I could ill spare Bob. He is my right-hand man," said Justin with concern. Then he looked about the room. "I congratulate you on the changes you have made here," he said. "This was an unlovable room when I left it. I suppose I shall find the house much improved?"
"I hope you will."