If you feel like lying down why not use the sofa in my room?
And even if you do not wish to see the doctor for yourself," Esther's tone was reproachful, "think what a good opportunity it is for us to get an opinion about mother.

Don't you remember saying just the other day that you thought mother was foolish to be so nervous about doctors ?" "Yes, but she needn't stay in the room, need she, Esther?
I don't want her in the room.

She laughs.

But I would like to lie on your sofa and if I must see him I had better wear my lavender cap." "Yes, dear, and you will not mind mother staying--" "But I do mind, Esther.

And anyway she can't," triumphantly, "because she has gone out." "Gone out?
Mother?
But she knew the doctor was coming and she promised--" "Yes, I know.