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Page 135
overnight case had been left in the cab. I knew it hadn't been. She didn't have it with her. I assure you, I know the size and appearance of every single piece of luggage we have. I can even tell you how many nicks and scratches each piece has."
General Barthemeles cleared his throat explosively and snorted. "I knew Harriet would take it, but I wasn't sure of Emmeline. In fact, Emmeline doesn't usually fuss that way. I started to think she wanted to miss the train, maybe that she didn't want to make the trip at all. Has she said anything like that to you?"
"No." Linda felt surprised. "She seemed very eager to leave whenever we talked about it, but I've been so busy. . . ."
"Mmm-hmmm. That may be it. She remarked to me that Peter hasn't been around much recently. Maybe with your time taken upOh ho, so that's it, is it?"
Linda had felt herself blush when Peter's name was mentioned and, foolishly, had looked away, making it easier for General Barthemeles's keen eye to catch the betraying color. "Peter and I have had lunch together a number of times," she said defensively. "But I don't think he's visited his aunt less often. Well, of course, he hasn't been to lunch, but he stops in almost every day after work."
"And Emmeline always complained about Peter's comin' to lunch. I know. But old people are unreasonable, m'dear. They can't stand the

 
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