CHAPTER 1.III.
Beryl was alone in the living-room when Stanley appeared, wearing a blue serge suit, a stiff collar and a spotted tie.

He looked almost uncannily clean and brushed; he was going to town for the day.

Dropping into his chair, he pulled out his watch and put it beside his plate.
"I've just got twenty-five minutes," he said.

"You might go and see if the porridge is ready, Beryl ?" "Mother's just gone for it," said Beryl.

She sat down at the table and poured out his tea.
"Thanks!" Stanley took a sip.