He went through his breakfast healthily, making up his mind he was fit for the trip. Mademoiselle Dupont smiled at him from her table, though she looked as if her witnessing of Dr Kandor’s plunge to death had affected her sleep. But she was at least spared the unwanted smiles and importunities of Monsieur Valery, who had not yet appeared for breakfast. Celeste wanted to go to Nice with Edward, but her mother could not do without her this time. Four guests were leaving and three winter guests were arriving. It meant busy work for the small staff, and Celeste must do her share. ‘But, Mama—’ ‘Yes, yes, I know, you think Monsieur Somers shouldn’t drive to Nice by himself. You forget he drives all the way here from England. I know you like to be with him, but he’ll be here until April.’ ‘Oh, but, Mama—’ ‘But, but? Come, come, you mustn’t attach yourself to him so possessively. People will talk. Look how you’ve grown lately.’ ‘Why should people talk about that?’ protested Celeste.
