“It may take me two or three more years. I have allowed myself five years for the book.”
She drew in her breath.
“Mr. Canterton, I don’t know what to say. And I don’t think you realise what you are offering me. Just—life, more life. But it almost frightens me that you should think——”
His eyes smiled at her understandingly.
“Paint me a few trial pieces. Begin with one of the borders here, and a rose bed in the rosery that I will show you. Also, give me a study of trees, and another of rocks and plants in the rock garden.”
“I will begin at once.”
He looked beyond her towards the blue hills.
“As to the terms between us, will you let me write you a letter embodying them?”
“Yes.”
“You can have an agreement if you like.”