"As you so rightly pointed out, I really should come back here in the spring.

 

Darlington Hall must be rather lovely then. The last time I was here, I think it

was winter then too. I say, Stevens, are you sure you're all right there?"

 

"Perfectly all right, thank you, sir."

 

"Not feeling unwell, are you?"

 

"Not at all, sir. Please excuse me."

 

I proceeded to serve port to some other of the guests. There was a loud burst of

laughter behind me and I heard the Belgian clergyman exclaim:

 

"That is really heretical! Positively heretical!" then laugh loudly himself. I

felt something touch my elbow and turned to find Lord Darlington.

 

"Stevens, are you all right?"

 

"Yes, sir. Perfectly."

 

"You look as though you're crying."

 

I laughed and taking out a handkerchief, quickly wiped my face. "I'm very sorry,