V

Simeon Lee took the envelope. He drew out the single sheet of paper it held. He looked surprised.

His eyebrows¹ rose, but he smiled.

“By all that’s wonderful!” he said.

Then to the butler: “Show Mr. Farr up here, Tressilian.”

“Yes, sir.”

Simeon said: “I was just thinking of old Ebenezer Farr. He was my partner out there in

Kimberley. Now here’s his son come along!”

Tressilian reappeared. He announced: “Mr. Farr.”

Stephen Farr came in with a trace of nervousness. He disguised it by putting on a little extra

swagger. He said—and just for the moment his South African accent was more marked than usual:

“Mr. Lee?”

“I’m glad to see you. So you’re Eb’s boy?”

Stephen Farr grinned rather sheepishly.

He said: “My first visit to the old country. Father always told me to look you up if I did

come.”

“Quite right.” The old man looked round. “This is my granddaughter, Pilar Estravados.”

“How do you do?” said Pilar demurely².

Stephen Farr thought with a touch of admiration⁴:

“Cool little devil. She was surprised to see me, but it only showed for a flash.”

He said, rather heavily: “I’m very pleased to make your acquaintance, Miss Estravados.”

“Thank you,” said Pilar.

Simeon Lee said: “Sit down and tell me all about yourself. Are you in England for long?”

“Oh, I shan’t hurry myself now I’ve really got here!”

He laughed, throwing his head back.

Simeon Lee said: “Quite right. You must stay here with us for a while.”

“Oh, look here, sir. I can’t butt⁵ in like that. It’s only two days to Christmas.”

“You must spend Christmas with us—unless you’ve got other plans?”

“Well, no, I haven’t, but I don’t like—”

Simeon said: “That’s settled.” He turned his head. “Pilar?”

“Yes, Grandfather.”

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