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"That's good of you," said Vincent.
"Not at all; he deserves it, he risked much to try and save me, he did his best," said Alan.
During Alan's absence in France, Eve had plenty to do at home. The wounded officers took up much of her time. When not attending to them, or delegating the duty to others, she went about the home farm, the stables and the gardens, often visiting Sam Kerridge at the Stud, where Alfonso was doing well and most of the mares were still in possession.
Alan's racing establishment had been cut down, but this was not to be wondered at, and Fred Skane had an easier time than usual. Many of the lads had joined up, and more were waiting for the call. Alan generously granted them a portion of their salaries during the time they served.
Eve looked longingly forward to the time when Alan would be free again and live always at Trent Park and where children to be born would increase their happiness tenfold. She wrote him long letters, giving all the news and local gossip, also everything concerning their home.
Her latest letter roused Alan's interest more than usual.
"You see, I was right," she wrote; "Duncan Fraser asked Ella Hallam to be his wife and she consented. I am sure it is a good match, so is Mr.
Hallam, and Ella will be happy. Once upon a time I fancied you admired her, I mean were half in love with her, and I am not quite certain yet that she has forgiven me for s.n.a.t.c.hing you away. We were always meant for each other, Alan; it was our destiny, and in this case it has proved very kind.
"And what do you think? Mr. Hallam wants me to sell The Forest to him in order to give it to Ella as a wedding present. Shall I? Tell me.
There are many pleasant a.s.sociations connected with it--the best, that you asked me to be your wife there."
Then followed news which caused Alan to exclaim:
"By Jove, I am glad! I hope it's a boy."
Eve continued:
"And there's something else, another match. Will Kerridge has asked Jane to be his wife; her second matrimonial venture will not be as stormy as her first.
"We are all well here, and my wounded soldiers simply love the place"
("and their nurses," commented Alan, "lucky beggars!").
"I never pa.s.s the steeplechase course but it recalls vividly to mind that never-to-be-forgotten day when you won on Bandmaster--the Rider in Khaki."
THE END
