“What are their names? Not also Ronny, Ralph, and Stella, surely?”
The suggestion delighted him. “No, indeed. How funny it sounds! Their names are quite different and will surprise you. Listen, please. I am about to tell you my children’s names. The first is called Ahmed, the second is called Karim, the third—she is the eldest—Jamila. Three children are enough. Do not you agree with me?”
“I do.”
They were both silent for a little, thinking of their respective families. She sighed and rose to go.
“Would you care to see over the Minto Hospital one morning?” he enquired. “I have nothing else to offer at Chandrapore.”
“Thank you, I have seen it already, or I should have liked to come with you very much.”
“I suppose the Civil Surgeon took you.”
“Yes, and Mrs. Callendar.”
His voice altered. “Ah! A very charming lady.”
“Possibly, when one knows her better.”