"
"We might have a croquet lawn," suggested Robin.
"We might easily have a croquet lawn," I agreed. "On a full-sized
lawn I believe Veronica might be taught to play. There are natures
that demand space. On a full-sized lawn, protected by a stout iron
border, less time might be wasted exploring the surrounding scenery
for Veronica's lost ball."
"No chance of a golf links anywhere in the neighbourhood?" feared
Dick.
"I am not so sure," I answered. "Barely a mile away there is a
pretty piece of gorse land that appears to be no good to anyone. I
daresay for a reasonable offer--"
"I say, when will this show be ready?" interrupted Dick.
"I propose beginning the alterations at once," I explained. "By luck
there happens to be a gamekeeper's cottage vacant and within
distance. The agent is going to get me the use of it for a year--a
primitive little place, but charmingly situate on the edge of a wood.
I shall furnish a couple of rooms; and for part of every week I shall
make a point of being down there, superintending. I have always been
considered good at superintending. My poor father used to say it was
the only work I seemed to take an interest in. By being on the spot
to hurry everybody on I hope to have the 'show,' as you term it,
ready by the spring."
"I shall never marry," said Robin.
"Don't be so easily discouraged," advised Dick; "you are still
young."
"I don't ever want to get married," continued Robin.
Pages:
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
48
49
50
51
52
53