“Yes, that’s why I expect I shall never get a wife.... Really must go, Gilbert? I had tea with Claudia and the long-legged Patricia yesterday. We wished you could have been with us.”
“Teas are not in my line. I suppose I shall see you again soon?”
“Well, I’m going away, you know.”
Gilbert turned back in surprise.
“What, at the beginning of the season!” exclaimed Lady Currey.
“Going out to the Argentine for a while. A friend of mine is going out on a political mission and wants an assistant. I’ve decided to accompany him. Never been there, and it must be an interesting country.”
Gilbert raised his eyebrows. Why on earth didn’t Paton stop in one place and make a name for himself? He had often advised him to do so.
“Sudden isn’t it? I thought you said the other night that you were remaining in town until the end of July.”
Paton nodded. “I’ve changed my mind. I think I want a change. I shall only be away six months or so, perhaps a year.”
Gilbert’s thoughts had raced ahead. “Then if we’re married at the end of July, as is probable, you’ll be away? That’s too bad. I had relied on you for being best man.”