"It will be a long business, dear, we are afraid."
Sidney spoke cheerfully, but her eyes could not meet Monica's.
"Does he not think I am going to recover?"
The words came like a pistol shot, so sharp and incisive they were.
"Oh, yes—yes—you are getting on splendidly, but you have had a very severe attack, and it will take time."
There was silence for a few minutes, then Monica said:
"Chuckles must go to school as soon as possible. I meant him to go after Easter."
"After the midsummer holidays will be time enough, dear. Jockie is teaching him and looking after him. He is very happy and good."
"How long have I been ill?"
"Six weeks."