"We really ought to be going, Alex. I said we'd be in to tea, and it takes such ages to get back."
Alex rose submissively. She marvelled at the assurance of Barbara, even at the ease of her conventionally affectionate farewells.
"Well, good-bye, my dear. When are you coming out to the wilds to look me up?"
Then, without giving her sister-in-law time to reply, she added gaily, "You must ring me up and let me know, when you've a spare moment. You know I'm always a fixture. What a blessing the telephone is!"
"Then we'll see you on Saturday, Alex," said her brother. "Good! Take care of yourself, my dear." He looked after her with an expression of concern, as the servant held open the door for her and Barbara and they went into the street. Alex could not believe that this kindly, rather pompous man was her younger brother.
"Cedric has grown very good-looking, but I didn't expect to see him so—so old, somehow," she said.
Barbara laughed.
"Time hasn't stood still with any of us, you know. I think Violet looks older than he does—she is, of course. She'll be a mountain in a few years' time, if she doesn't take care."
"Oh, Barbara! I think she's so pretty—and sweet."
Barbara shrugged her shoulders very slightly.