Maskerade
Page 38
Page 38
Ive been. . . taking exercise, said Agnes. Exercise is a fine thing, certainly, said Granny, getting back to her digging. Though they do say you can have too much of it. When are you going back?
I. . . havent decided.
Weeelll, it doesnt pay to be always planning. Dont tie yourself down the whole time, Ive always said that. Staying with your ma, are you?
Yes, said Agnes. Ah? Only Magrats old cottage is still empty. Youd be doing everyone a favour if you aired it out a bit. You know. . . as long as youre here. Agnes said nothing. She couldnt think of anything to say. Funny ole thing, said Granny, hacking around a particularly troublesome tree root. I wouldnt tell everyone, but I was only thinking the other day, about when I was younger and called myself Endemonidia. . .
You did? When? Granny rubbed her forehead with her bandaged hand, leaving a clay-red smudge. Oh, for about three, four hours, she said. Some names dont have the stayin power. Never pick yourself a name you cant scrub the floor in. She threw her shovel out of the hole. Give me a hand up, will you? Agnes did so. Granny brushed the dirt and leafmould off her apron and tried to stamp the clay off her boots. Time for a cup of tea, eh? she said. My, you are looking well. Its the fresh air. Too much stuffy air in that Opera House, I thought. Agnes tried in vain to detect anything in Granny Weatherwaxs eyes other than transparent honesty and goodwill. Yes. I thought so, too, she said. Er. . . youve hurt your hand?
Itll heal. A lot of things do. She shouldered her shovel and headed towards the cottage; and then, halfway up the path, turned and looked back. This is just me askin, you understand, in a kind neighbourly way, takin an interest sort of thing, wouldnt be human if I didnt- Agnes sighed. Yes?
. . . you got much to do with your evenins these days? There was just enough rebellion left in Agnes to put a sarcastic edge on her voice. Oh? Are you offering to teach me something?
Teach? No, said Granny. Aint got the patience for teaching. But I might let you learn.
When shall we three meet again?
We havent met once, yet.
O course we have. Ive personly known you for at least
I mean we Three havent Met. You know. . . officially. . .
All right. . . When shall we three meet?
Were already here.
All right. When shall-? Just shut up and get out the marshmallows. Agnes, give Nanny the marshmallows.
Yes, Granny.
And mind you dont burn mine. Granny sat back. It was a clear night, although clouds mounting towards the hub promised snow soon. A few sparks flew up towards the stars. She looked around proudly. Isnt this nice, she said.
THE END