‘Not a bit. They left me full of hope and interest in the world. Reminded me that there’s still time, you know.
Maud was looking doubtful.
‘But there is, Maud. You’ll be able to write seriously once Cyril’s gone away to school.’
‘Ah. I thought you meant – never mind. You’re quite right. I will get time to myself, but at what price? Losing Cyril for weeks and months at a time.’
Feeling Maud droop, Trix pressed her hand.
‘But we mustn’t linger. It’s time to be off, was that your bag in the hall?’
Maud was her brisk self again.
‘I was just a bit afraid your dragon-guardian Mama wouldn’t let you come, at the last moment,’ she giggled, as they stood together before the mirror to put on their hats.
*
Alice and Lockwood now had The Gables to themselves, for the first time in several year
