Chapter VI

The next day Mary sent Uncle Herbert a long description of her duties as his almoner, and enclosed the account. What with postages and her railway fare, she had spent altogether £4. 18s. 11d.

Two days later this letter came back from Uncle Herbert:

“DEAR MARY,

“You are as good an almoner as I could wish, and I hope that another
chance of setting you to work will come. Put the thirteen pence
that are over in a box labelled ‘The Almoner’s Fund.’ Then take the
enclosed postal order for a pound and get it cashed, and the next
time you are in Westerfield buy Mr. Verney a box of cigarettes, but
be sure to find out first what kind he likes. Also give Harry six
shillings. I dare say he has broken his bicycle or wants some more
films: at any rate, he will not say no. The rest is for yourself to
buy something purely for yourself with. Please tell your mother that
I am coming on Saturday by the train reaching you at 5.8. I shall
walk from the station, but I want Thomas Barnes to fetch my bag.

“Your affectionate
“UNCLE HERBERT.”

Whether or no Thomas Barnes knew where the truck came from we never found out; but at Christmas-time he was discovered among the waits who sang carols on the Stavelys’ lawn.

SIR FRANKLIN AND THE LITTLE MOTHERS

SIR FRANKLIN AND THE LITTLE MOTHERS