Chapter Three
In point of fact, Gussie had two requests to put before her uncle and aunt, only one of which she had shared with Theo.
It was the work of a mere few minutes to procure a sufficient invitation for Nell.
‘Why, of course,’ said Lady Werth, having been run to earth in the dining-parlour, brightening a bouquet of hothouse flowers. ‘We are always delighted to see dear Nell.’
Gussie, finding it prudent not to mention her real reason for desiring Nell’s company, permitted her aunt to imagine her missing her sister. Which was perfectly true, after all.
‘And there is another matter for which I should like your permission, Aunt.’
Lady Werth, as alive as her son to signs of danger from Gussie, looked up, and subjected her niece to a narrow-eyed look. ‘And what is that?’
‘It’s to
