Her husband frowned and turned towards Lessingham.
"You see," he complained a little irritably, "my wife doesn't approve of my taking an interest even in fishing while the war's on, but, hang it all, what are you to do when you reach my age?
Thinks I ought to be a special constable, don't you, Philippa ?" "Need we discuss this before Mr.Lessingham ?" she asked, without looking up from her paper.
Lessingham promptly prepared to take his departure.
"See something more of you, I hope," Sir Henry remarked hospitably, as he conducted his guest to the door.

"Where are you staying here ?" "At the hotel." "Which ?" "I did not understand that there was more than one," Lessingham replied.
"I simply wrote to The Hotel, Dreymarsh." "There is only one hotel open, of course, Mr.Lessingham," Philippa observed, turning towards him.

"Why do you ask such an absurd question, Henry?
The 'Grand' is full of soldiers.

Come and see us whenever you feel inclined, Mr.Lessingham." "I shall certainly take advantage of your permission, Lady Cranston," were the farewell words of this unusual visitor as he bowed himself out.
Sir Henry moved to the sideboard and helped himself to a whisky and soda.

Philippa laid down her newspaper and watched him as though waiting patiently for his return.