THE KARELA,
THE BITTER KARELA,
SHALL SEED WHERE
YE LOVED
1899-1902Carrie allowed herself to sink into the sofa’s full velvet cushions. She even stretched out her toes to the fire. Life at The Elms in Rottingdean was easier for her now that Rud’s spirits were improving. He was less irritable with her too, so long as he didn’t dwell on the sins of his American publishers. It made such a difference to him, having Aunt Georgie living close at hand. A difference to her, also, having an ally. A woman who cared for Rud without wanting always to be first with him.
She was drifting deliciously, almost dozing, when a shiver woke her. A long breath of icy air sighed in from the hall. Rud was back from his walk.
‘What a way to live. No wonder there’s such a dead dull look on all the faces.’ He l
