‘Oh!... I can’t imagine you doing anything except wander about looking innocent and bewildered. We might have some tests to-morrow!’
She went to the window, opened it wide and leaned out. Judith came and stood beside her. The night was still, dark and starry.
‘The grounds are beautiful,’ murmured Judith.
‘Yes—great trees——’ she murmured softly back. ‘And nightingales, I believe, in spring.’
‘Nightingales....’
‘Oh, there’s lots of things to look forward to,’ said Jennifer, turning round and smiling full at Judith. Their eyes sparkled and flashed: sympathy flowed like an electric current between them. She went on:
‘Oh Lord! Look at my bedroom. I’ll just clear a space and sleep among the wreckage. Won’t my gyp be pleased? It’s best to begin as I shall certainly go on, so I’ll leave it to her. She’ll like it as soon as I’ve won her heart.... Good night, Judith. I must tell you most people call me Jane.’
‘I shall call you Jennifer. It’s delicious,—different from anyone else. It’s like you.’
From the pillow Jennifer’s face broke into shy smiles, like a gratified child’s.
Judith busied herself quietly in the sitting-room, tidying the cups and knives,—enjoying the novel sensation of rendering service. After a few moments she called: