FORTY-THREEAfter all, it was not until a good deal later that Randal March rang the bell at the White Cottage. When he looked at his watch on Mrs. Voycey’s front doorstep and found that it was past half past twelve, he decided to run out to Lenton and lunch there before trying to see Rietta, who would at this moment be engaged in the homely task of getting the midday meal. He considered that he would certainly be in the way, and that no reasonable chance of seeing her alone would occur until after two.
At a quarter to he had his finger on the bell. Coming to the door, Rietta Cray stood for a moment looking at him. They looked at one another. Then he put his arm round her, took her through to the living-room, and shut the door. They had a great deal to say. Time slipped by whilst it was sa
