There’s a clattering in the kitchen. It’s Ross.
“Oh, hello, Ross. Um…. you’re here, so I suppose Richard is around somewhere?”
“He is, Sir. I believe you will find him with Mr Alexanders in the study.”
“Ross, please tell me it’s good news”.
“It’s not for me to say, Mr Summerford. I’d be speaking very much out of turn. Mr Haswell would roast me.” Then he smiles and drops a wink. “Bacon sandwich, Sir?”
*weight of world*
…. gone….
“That would be great, Ross.”
“And… um… the young lady?”
“I don’t think she’ll be able to handle bacon yet.”
“Coffee and juice then?”
“Thank you, Ross.”
*****
I find both Richard and James in the study, the air a little stale after the room being closed up all summer.
Richard collates papers, looking cheerful. James grim-faced and melancholy, sits in a
