“I have no very exact knowledge. He is going off to West Wood, to try if he can get a shot at a kestrel, and has firmly abjured my company.”
“Oh, so that holds, does it? He had better leave them alone: they will do little harm!”
“Very likely, but I do not grudge him the relief of being able to slay something! Chard, we are going to Kentham. Bring my curricle round in half an hour, if you please!” He looked at his cousin. “When do you set forth on your travels, Theo?”
“As soon as I may. There is a letter from Maplefield I must first deal with, but unless I find another shoe to be loose I hope to be away not much later than four o’clock!”
His groom, wilting visibly, withdrew to the shelter of the harness-room. Gervase murmured: “What a harsh taskmaster you are! Driving?”
“Yes, a gig, with much of your worldly wealth stowed in the back! What hope I have of visiting the farms I had intended to visit, I know not!”
“Peace! Your unfortunate groom is out of hearing! If you mean to shut yourself up in your tower with letters from Maplefield, I’ll bid you farewell. Do not allow my tenants to impose upon me!”
Theo took his hand, and gripped it, and held it for a minute. “I won’t. Gervase — ”
“Well?”
Theo released him. “Nothing. Take care of yourself while I am gone!”