"Do you want to go?" he asked curtly.
Anstice considered.
"I think I should like to do so. I should not stay longer than ten days. You would be here. Brenda can look after the children. The other maids all know their work. I should not be missed."
He said nothing.
Anstice gave a little laugh.
"Don't look so funereal; it is nothing to ask you for. Ten days' complete change—I won't say rest—for I know Cousin Lucy, and I am rather sceptical about her ill-health. She wants some one to racket round with her. You must remember that I have not stirred out of this house since the beginning of last June."
"There is no question of asking me about it. You know you are your own mistress, and if you like to stay away a month, you can do so without any reference to me. As you are rather hors de combat, it will be a good opportunity to go."
"Thank you. Then I will. I will resign my kingdom for the time being."
"I don't know that I shan't run up to town too, at the same time," said Justin suddenly.
Anstice looked at him with twinkling eyes.