"Oh, I won't keep you long," said Mr. Anson genially. "I'll send the manuscript to the reader to-night, and let you know as soon as possible."
They parted from their host on the pavement out side the Carlson, and Owen turned to Toni.
"Now, dear, what will you do? Will you come with me to the office, or have you any shopping?"
Toni bit her lip nervously. She had a request to make, and did not know how to set about it.
"Well?" Owen watched her, wondering why she looked embarrassed.
"Owen, would you mind if I went to Brixton to see my aunt? I—I'm afraid they think I'm a little unkind, and after all they have always been good to me."
"Why, Toni"—Owen was genuinely surprised—"you don't mean to say you are afraid to ask me that! Of course you can go. I'll come to fetch you when I've finished my work, if you like."
"Will you?" She knew how such a visit would gratify her aunt. "Shall I take a taxi, then, Owen? You'll want the car."
"Yes, I think that would be best, then you can stay as long as possible. What time shall I come, Toni? Half-past five or so?"
"Yes. That will be lovely. Then we'll have a jolly ride home."