Lippa by Beatrice Egerton
page 51 of 97 (52%)
page 51 of 97 (52%)
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It goes on raining steadily all day, and every one is dull and depressed, even Chubby. Dalrymple suddenly discovers that it is absolutely necessary for him to be back at the barracks as soon as possible, and bidding farewell, decamps. Lady Anne, despite the weather, tramps off to the village to preside at a sewing-class. Philippa is forbidden by Mabel to put her nose out of doors, who then retires to Lady Dadford's private boudoir where she spends the afternoon. 'What shall we do?' asks Lord Helmdon, gazing helplessly round on the remaining guests. 'Miss Seaton, suggest something, do!' 'I can't think of anything,' answers Lippa, longing for some distraction to her thoughts. 'Don't you think a little music would be nice,' says Miss Appleby, 'nothing enlivens one so much on a wet day.' 'Let us have some by all means,' says Helmdon. 'I say Tommy, I'm sure you'll honour us with a song, eh, what?' Tommy is a very juvenile young man, with light hair parted down the middle, a red face, and pince-nez. 'Anything you like,' he responds gaily. 'Come along then,' and away starts Chubby to the drawing-room followed by the others. 'Now, ladies and gentlemen,' he begins having opened the |
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