Binnen

Bernard took the head of the table and Binnen the foot.

Death of a Delft Blue Mitchell, Gladys, 1901-1983 1964

He saw Dame Beatrice looking at him, went forward at once, greeted her charmingly, led her to Bernard van Zestien and Binnen and then went to the side table to bring her a glass of sherry.

Death of a Delft Blue Mitchell, Gladys, 1901-1983 1964

Bernardo sat next to his grandfather and engaged the old man charmingly in conversation, completely ignoring the strident remarks of his grandmother, who was telling Binnen, at the other end of the table, how to grow hyacinths.

Death of a Delft Blue Mitchell, Gladys, 1901-1983 1964

As though in emulation of Binnen, she ate heartily and said not a single word (so far as Dame Beatrice was aware) to anyone.

Death of a Delft Blue Mitchell, Gladys, 1901-1983 1964

Laura responded with a rather vague reference to the Breeches Bible and realised, too late, that she had perpetrated a gaffe, but her face was partially saved by Binnen, who, equally unfortunately, took the opportunity to inform all and sundry that in September compost and stable manure were spread on the bulb-fields.

Death of a Delft Blue Mitchell, Gladys, 1901-1983 1964

Binnen, with the stolid patience of her race, allowed the stream of useless advice to flow over her while she addressed herself to the business of getting on with her lunch.

Death of a Delft Blue Mitchell, Gladys, 1901-1983 1964

No sooner had she said this than it was borne in upon her that some of these fellow-guests were old acquaintances, for out on to the terrace came Binnen, escorted by Florian and followed by Opal and Ruby.

Death of a Delft Blue Mitchell, Gladys, 1901-1983 1964

‘Binnen means Come In,’ said Dame Beatrice, solemnly.

Death of a Delft Blue Mitchell, Gladys, 1901-1983 1964

The company, shepherded by Binnen, were shown to their seats in the dining-room.

Death of a Delft Blue Mitchell, Gladys, 1901-1983 1964

‘Now that there is this business of Binnie and Bernardo,’ said Binnen, taking an appreciative sip of her gin, ‘Florian will probably leave his grandfather’s house until after the wedding.

Death of a Delft Blue Mitchell, Gladys, 1901-1983 1964