Cuthbert waits until they're out of earshot, watching, then shifts his gaze to Susan. "Was it something I said?" he asks, lightly.

"Please don't ask," she murmurs. "It's not yer fault, 'Bert. But it's his story to tell, if he wants, and I'd not speak of it without knowing."

"If ye'll have it so." His tone is gentle. "But thee are all right, Sue?"

She gets up and comes to hug him, fiercely. "I am. Say true."