I shall either build or buy a biggish craft, for racing in summer, and cruising in winter." "That means that you won't be here at all, Major Mallett." "Oh, no, it does not mean that, I can assure you.

I shall run down for a month three or four times a year; say for shooting in September or October, and for hunting a month or two later on; besides, I have to renew my acquaintance with my tenants and see that everything is going on comfortably.

I expect that I shall spend four or five months every year on the estate." "Till you settle down for good ?" "Yes, till I settle down for good," he laughed.

"I suppose it will have to be someday." "Then you don't think of passing much time in London, Mallett ?" "No, indeed.

Fortunately my father sold his town house three years ago.