Westlake's lecture will be over by four
o'clock, and that allows people to get away in good time. The
workmen's tea will be at half-past five.'
'You must have refreshments of some kind for casual comers,'
counselled Mrs. Waltham.
'I've thought of that. Rodman suggests that we shall get the
"Wheatsheaf" people to have joints and that kind of thing in the
refreshment-room at the Hall from half-past twelve to half-past one.
We could put up some notice to that effect in Agworth station.'
'Certainly, and inside the railway carriages.'
Mutimer's private line, which ran from the works to Agworth station,
was to convey visitors to New Wanley on this occasion.
'I think I shall have three or four ladies,' Richard pursued 'Mrs.
Westlake 'll be sure to come', and I think Mrs. Eddlestone--the wife
of the Trades Union man, you know. And I've been rather calculating
on you, Mrs. Waltham; do you think you could--?'
The lady's eyes were turned to the window, watching the sad steady
rain.
'Really, you're making a downright Socialist of me, Mr. Mutimer,'
she replied, with a laugh which betrayed a touch of sore throat.
'I'm half afraid to accept such an invitation. Shouldn't I be there
on false pretences, don't you think?'
Richard mused; his legs were crossed, and he swayed his foot up and
down.
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