Читать книгу The Dark River онлайн

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"He was trying to remember the name of some woman who used to take care of him," Hardie remarked; "the one he hated so to leave."

"That would be Mauri. She still lives at Vaihiva; she owns the valley, in fact. She'll want to see George. She's asked about him from time to time. If you like, I'll take you both out there one of these days.... By the way, where've you put up--Hôtel du Port? Why not stop with me? The hotel's nothing to boast of."

"We'll accept with pleasure, sir, if you'll ask us a bit later. For the next few days we thought we'd like to wander about on our own."

"Of course. So would I in your place. You want your first impressions fresh and unspoiled by the consular atmosphere. Well, come when you please. You'll be welcome at any time. Meanwhile, perhaps you could have dinner with me on Friday?"

Hardie rose and took up his hat. "We'd like nothing better. What time shall we come?"

"Dinner at seven-thirty. Any time you please before that."

"We'll be on hand. Good night, sir."