They passed several of Canterton’s men parading the walks leading to the nurseries. Temporary wire fences and gates had been put up here and there. Canterton smiled.
“Doesn’t it strike you as almost too pointed?”
“What, that barbed wire?”
“Yes. I believe I have made myself an offence to the neighbourhood. But the few people I care about understand. Besides, we give to our friends.”
“I think you must have been a brave man.”
“No, an obstinate one. I did not see why the Mrs. Brocklebanks should have pieces of my rare plants. I have even had my men bribed once or twice. You should hear Lavender on the subject. Look at that!”
He had brought her down to see the heath garden, and her verdict was an awed silence. They stood side by side, looking at the magnificent masses of colour glowing in the afternoon light.
“Oh, how exquisite!”
“It is rather like drinking when one is thirsty.”
“Yes.”