I made light of the situation, and Stella too saw the funny side.
She made me up a bath, and promised to brush down my evening suit, later.
After breakfast, I decided to take another look at the grave where my cousin was now-I hoped-resting in peace. I must confess, I had a nagging thought that I had not covered her sufficiently, and needed to check one more time, just for my own peace of mind.
I had not heard the church bell toll as yet, so I thought it safe to presume that the funeral had not started.
As I neared the entrance to the cemetery, my heart skipped a beat at the first toll of the church bell.
I was too late!
I cursed myself for not setting out before breakfast, instead of after.
Even so, I had to see my mission through. If my task from the early hours were to be discove
