"He will be here to tea."
Frederic Vernon remained silent for a short time. He was thinking over the new situation. In some respects it was satisfactory. He was naturally lazy, and though his duties had been light, he had no objection to give up work altogether.
"Of course, you will please yourself, aunt," he said.
"There is one thing more. You had better find another home."
"What! Leave this house?"
"Yes; you will be more independent elsewhere. While you were in my service it was best for you to have your home here. I shall make you an extra provision to cover the expense of a room elsewhere."
"You are very kind, aunt."
"I mean to be. Of course, you are at liberty to come here to meals whenever you like. You will be quite independent as regards that."
"How long have you been thinking of making a change, aunt?"
"For some weeks. I advise you to find some occupation. It will not be well for you to have your time entirely unoccupied."