The lawyers called back at nine.
Damien took the call in the study and I sat in the library with my book open and unread and listened to the low even sound of his voice through the door without being able to make out the words. The tone told me enough. Measured and certain and without the particular flatness that crept in when he was managing something he found distasteful.
He had decided.
The tone confirmed it.
He came out at half past nine and sat across from me in the library and said: it is done. The agreement is being formally released. Clara Marsh will be notified tomorrow morning through her own legal representative.
I said: how did the lawyers respond.
He said: professionally. With considerable concern professionally expressed.
I said: meaning they think it is a mistake.
He
