valided home an exchanged prisoner, came to Trent
Park for rest and change. He sorely needed it and Eve looked after him
well, also Captain Morby, severely wounded, and several more officers.
In fact, Trent Park was turned into a convalescent home, with Eve in
command. Ella and some friends were willing helpers, and Jane came
every day to do what she could for Mrs. Chesney, to whom she was much
attached.

Captain Morby said the man who could not make a recovery at Trent Park
was very far gone indeed.

"I say, Newport, I owe you a uniform," said Alan, laughing, and told
him how he took his in the house of Jean Baptistine.

"A fine old chap," said Vincent. "He did what he could for me; had I
been fit he'd have got me away safely."

"I hear the old fellow's had his place blown about his ears but he's
still there. I am trying to smuggle him over here. I'll fix up a
small farm for him where he can settle down and try and be contented; I
think I can manage it."

"That's good of you," said Vincent.

"Not at all; he deserves it, he risked much to try and save me, he did
his best," said Alan.

During Alan's absence in France, Eve had plenty to do at home. The
wounded officers took up much of her time. When not attending to them,
or delegating the duty to others, she went about the home farm, the
stables and the gardens, often visiting Sam Kerridge at the Stud, where
Alfonso was doing well and most of the mares were still in possession.
Alan's racing establishment had been cut down, but this was not to be
wondered at, and Fred Skane had an easier time than usual. Many of the
lads had joined up, and more were waiting for the call. Alan
generously granted them a portion of their salaries during the time
they served.

Eve looked longingly forward to the time when Alan would be free again
and live always at Trent Park and where children to be born would
increase their happiness tenfold. She wrote him long letters, giving
all the news and local gossip, also everything concerning their home.
Her latest letter roused Alan's interest more than usual.

"You see, I was right," she wrote; "Duncan Fraser asked Ella Hallam to
be his wife and she consented. I am sure it is a good match, so is Mr.
Hallam, and Ella will be happy. Once upon a time I fancied you admired
her, I mean were half in love with her, and I am not quite certain yet
that she has forgiven me for snatching you away. We were always meant
for each other