Chapter 5
Mr. Hammond’s eyes had drifted towards the open door of the drawing-room from where the sounds of lively merriment, including Freddy’s irrepressible laughter, was wafting. Jonathan was slightly surprised by the depth of unhappiness on his rather stolid features.
Mr. Hammond recovered himself with a start and immediately resumed his task as a helper. “Oh, I’m so sorry, excuse me,” he said contritely, handing up a fine branch of greenery.
“No need for an apology,” Jonathan said smoothly, not revealing that he had noticed Mr. Hammond’s yearning expression. “We are nearly finished here and then you can join the hilarity.” He placed the final frond in position and started to descend the ladder.
“Oh, I don’t think they need me interfering with their amusements,” said Mr. Hammond with such a tinge of sadness to his tone that Jonathan looked at him sharply. There was more to this than he had guessed. This was not mere shyness in feminine company.