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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." |
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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?" |
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"No." Linda felt surprised. "She seemed very eager to leave whenever we talked about it, but I've been so busy. . . ." |
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"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?" |
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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." |
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"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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