“Then we can’t help you. We never keep more than those of the current year. Is it important?”
“It is, rather,” responded Anthony. “Do you know what becomes of them?”
“I am not quite sure, Mr. Bathurst, but I believe Father sends them to the Cottage Hospital. Come in and see Father—he’ll tell you at once.”
Sir Charles and Lady Considine were in the library.
“Father,” said Mary, “Mr. Bathurst and Bill want you. They want to know where the old copies of The Prattler go?”
Sir Charles looked wonderment.
“It’s rather an unusual request, I know, sir,” said Anthony; “but believe me, I have excellent reasons for worrying you over it.”
“The Prattler? They’re sent to the Allingham Cottage Hospital at the end of every year,” he said.
“H’m—hard luck,” muttered Anthony. “The Allingham Cottage Hospital! Far from here?”
“No,” declared Sir Charles. “About five miles, walking across the Downs. Eight and a half by road.”