About this story
Seasick for three days, you surface to find Mrs. Torquilin adopting you and Mr. Charles Mafferton assigned as your walking companion — reserved, funny, careful never to discuss his own family until the day before you land. You choose a hotel over an unannounced arrival at your aunt's door, and through the rain glimpse a second cab that might have been his.
How it opens
Poppa WickA political complication keeps us from the English journey already announced in Chicago.
Momma WickYour father calls the liner safe company, while a maid would be another person for you to manage.
Poppa WickMy aunt Mrs. Portheris will recognize family duty when you present yourself in Half-Moon Street.
None of us has met her, Poppa, and a Christmas card is a thin foundation for residence.
Momma WickThe phrase all their dear ones sounds hospitable even after several years of silence.
Choose
Sail as booked and stay at a hotel until she invites me.
Send a cable despite the risk of alarming her.