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’Anne, darling, lovely party,’ said a loud voice over Alan’s shoulder

He did not recognise the fare; presumably one of Henry’s politician friends ’How’s the little mother - to - be?’ continued the effusive voice

Alan slipped away, hoping that he had bought some time for the bank

There were a lot of politicians at the party, froress, whichabout the big contract Not that he needed the bank to investigate that: the official announceoodbye to his host and hostess, picked up his black overcoat from the cloakroom and left

’This time next week,’ he said aloud, as if to reassure himself as he walked back down Chestnut Street to his own house

During the party Anne found time to watch Henry whenever he was near Milly Preston There was certainly no outward sign of anything between them; in fact, Henry spent an to wonder if she had nother appointment with Glen Ricardo the next day The party came to an end two hours later than Anne had anticipated; she hoped it meant that everybody had enjoyed thernselves

’Great party, Anne, thanks for inviting us’ It was the loud voice again, leaving last Anne couldn’t re to do with City Hall He disappeared down the drive

Anne stu her dress even before she had reached the bedrooive nothe baby in ten weeks’ tiet a chance to have a ith Alan, darling?’

’Yes, I did,’ replied Amne ’He said the books look fine, but as the co his own accountants in to double check; apparently that’s nor policy be damned Cant you sense Willia to hold up the loan, Anne!

’How can you say that? Alan said nothing about Willia ’He didn’t bother to mention to you that Williaolf club while we sat here at home alone? ’What?’ said Anne ’I don’t believe it Willia me You must be mistaken, Henry!

’My dear, half of the city was there, and I don’t iine thaf Williaolf with Alan Lloyd

Listen, Anne, I need that loan or I’ to fail to qualify as a bidder for the city contract So to have to decide whether you trust William or ht days froood for that amount, I’ll be disqualified

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Disqualified because Willia to marry me

Please Anne, will you call Alan tOry voice booNO, not tomorrow, Henry Can it wait until Friday? I have a heavy day tomorrow’