Page 128 of The Secrets of the Tea Garden
‘Before you do,’ said Mungo, springing to his feet, ‘we’ve got some news to tell you from India. Haven’t we, Ma?’
‘India?’ said Adela, feeling sudden alarm as Tilly pressed a handkerchief to her mouth. ‘Not bad news, I hope?’
‘No,’ said Mungo, ‘it’s great news. Though Ma is being all silly and emotional about it, aren’t you?’ He leant towards Tilly and gave her shoulder a pat.
Adela looked at them expectantly. Tilly looked suddenly too overcome to speak.
Josey said, ‘A telegram came late yesterday – from James.’
Mungo smiled broadly. ‘Dad’s coming back. He’s booked a flight. He’ll be home by the end of the month.’
‘That’s wonderful!’ cried Adela. ‘Home for a visit or for good?’
‘For good,’ said Mungo.
‘I’m so pleased,’ said Adela.
‘So am I,’ said Sam.
Tilly looked up and gave them a teary smile. ‘Yes, it’s marvellous news.’ Then her face crumpled and Tilly dissolved into tears.
‘Oh, Ma!’ Mungo chided in amusement. ‘You’re so sentimental.’
Adela and Sam exchanged glances. Adela knew her husband was wondering the same thing; was Tilly weeping for joy or out of unhappiness that her long-absent husband was returning to her after all these years apart?
