"Poor girl! She is wonderful. It has been so sad, for they both intended this London visit to be one of keen enjoyment. We little thought—"
"I have heard about it," said Austin abruptly. "Excuse me going in. This place has always been like a second home to me, and I'm bewildered at all these changes."
He heaved a sigh of relief as he got past her.
"Thank goodness that's over! Jockie was quite right. I did make a fool of myself."
He noticed at once the changes in the house; but when he was shown into the morning-room, and Sidney held out both hands with a bright smile of welcome, he almost broke down.
"Oh, Sid! My little chum! What can I say? How we shall miss him!"
Sidney's eyes filled with sudden tears.
"That's good to hear, Austin! He was very fond of you."
"Can you speak about it? Would you rather not?"
"I should love to tell you all about him, but I expect you have heard."