Maud's eyes fell. "He won't do that," she said, in a low voice. "He and Bunny will settle it between them, and I shall be told afterwards."
"That so?" said Capper. "Then, if I may take the liberty to advise you, madam, I should consult them first."
She shook her head in silence. How could she even begin to tell Capper of the utter lack of sympathy between herself and Jake?
"And you really think he is fit to go to school, and fend for himself?" she asked, after a moment.
"Do him all the good in the world," said Capper. He added kindly: "Guess you'll miss him some, my dear; but believe me you won't be sorry when you see what it does for him."
"Oh no, I shall never be sorry on his account," she said.
And there the subject ended, but before she left the breakfast table she found an opportunity to acquaint him with her decision to remain at home that day.
He expressed regret but not surprise. "You are wise not to overtire yourself," he said.
She became aware again of the green eyes surveying her for a moment, and coloured. "I--am not sleeping very well," she said, with an effort.
He nodded as one who fully understood. "Take things easily!" he said. "Don't fret over 'em! Let the world go by!"