“What can it mean?” said Barbara. “Mrs. Pelham was not going to leave us until long after Christmas. My mother arrives to-morrow. What can be the matter?”
“She doubtless had her reasons,” said Pelham. “She will write and tell you when she gets to town.”
“I wonder what Dr. Tarbot really wanted with her?” continued Barbara.
Pelham drew his wife to his side.
“Don’t let us talk about Tarbot,” he said.
“Why so?”
“I dislike the man so cordially. What about that Christmas tree?”
Barbara brightened up.
“I shall go into Exeter to-day,” she said, “and I will buy the things necessary for the tree there. Will you come with me, Dick?”
“I cannot. I have to see Manson about the lease for the South Meadow Farm. It is a lovely day, and you may as well drive over to Exeter. The horses are eating their heads off, and a long run will do them good.”