‘If Mrs Wilson says it is a room I have occupied before, I know the way quite well.’
‘There are two ways to it,’ she said. ‘But of course one of them is enough,’ she added with a smile. ‘Mr Osborne, your room is in another part quite.’
‘I know where my sister’s room is,’ said Charley. ‘Is it anywhere near hers?’
‘That is the room you are to have. Miss Osborne is to be with your mamma, I think. There is plenty of accommodation, only the notice was short.’
I began to button my coat.
‘Don’t go, Wilfrid,’ said Charley. ‘You might give offence. Besides, you will have the advantage of getting to work as early as you please in the morning.’
It was late and I was tired—consequently less inclined than usual to encounter a storm, for in general I enjoyed being in any commotion of the elements. Also I felt I should like to pass another night in that room, and have besides the opportunity of once more examining at my leisure the gap in the tapestry.
‘Will you meet me early in the library, Charley?’ I said.
‘Yes—to be sure I will—as early as you like.’
‘Let us go to the drawing-room, then.’