Feet climbing stair carpet and Mamma came in.
“We’re off in half an hour. Is everything ready?”
“Yes, I think so.”
She went down the stairs, more slowly this time. Half-way down she paused to look at her watch, then hurried on.
“William, they ought to be off now, if they are going to catch that train. Are all the labels on?”
“Yes, madam.”
One, two—five—seven, eight. Eight trunks. They were all there, piled on to two cars. Cars were so expensive to hire nowadays. Thirty shillings. Ruinous.
“Get in, Janet, get in. You have got the money I gave you? Don’t forget to label them to Paddington. The stationmaster is expectin’ you, and I will be there soon, so you’ll be all right. Yes, drive away.”
Janet waved to William. He had aged, he looked so worn standin’ by the door there. It was a terrible business gettin’ people off.
“There they go, madam.”