"It never rains but it pours," I said ruefully. "First Maurice is called off to town, and now I've got to go."
"What, to-night!" exclaimed Aunt Mary and Miss York simultaneously.
"I'm afraid so," I admitted; "it's a matter of business." And then I read the wire out aloud. I couldn't very well show it them, considering that the somewhat awkward statement, "sent off from Woodford 5.40," was decorating the left-hand corner.
"Oh, dear, dear, I am sorry," cried Aunt Mary. "And there's no train till the 9.30, too."
"Oh, that doesn't matter," I said. "If you can give me a lift into Woodford, I'll motor up."
"But what about your dinner?"
"After that tea," I declared, laughing, "dinner is a minor consideration."
Aunt Mary looked genuinely distressed. "But, of course, you must have something to eat," she said. "I'll tell cook to put you up some sandwiches and a flask. They'll be ready by the time you've packed."
And without waiting to hear my protests, the dear, kind soul hurried off into the house.
I followed, courteously declining the butler's proffered assistance in packing, and going up to my room, proceeded to stuff my belongings into the handsome Gladstone bag and dressing-case which Northcote had bequeathed to me. I had just finished when I heard the trap roll up to the front door.