CHAPTER 39: SO SHORT A TIME
Thomas Barrow's Pantry
Saturday morning
Bates waited until he was seated at Thomas' desk before opening the envelope with no return address. He knew the letter was from Novello and saw no reason for members of the staff, especially the female members, to know that he and Novello were corresponding regularly. Now that he was alone, he slit the envelope and pulled out a single sheet of stationery. He hoped it would not contain the almost certain news that Thomas had chosen to remain in London.
My dear John,
It will be with a reluctant heart that I dispatch Thomas back to Downton on Sunday. I did not expect to develop so much affection for him in so short a time. I dare say he is as dear to me now as he is to you.
He never says, but our boy is anxious to return home. He's had adventures here, but a day does not pass without him speaking fondly of you and your family. I confess that his affection for you and your wife and boy awakens the green-eyed monster in me.
I will be sending you a package next week. I know you will accept it graciously and not make me feel foolish. It will be a mere token of my appreciation for the role you played in arranging Thomas' visit.
I apologize for the late notice, but I would like to keep Thomas with me as late as possible on Sunday without worrying about train schedules. Would you be able to accommodate my chauffeur for one night if he were to drive Thomas home? Please telephone if it would not be convenient so that we may make other arrangements.
Your devoted friend,
Ivor Novello
P.S. Do you know anything of Thomas' life before he came to Downton?
