Emily put her arm round his waist and gave it a slight hug.

“What is it?” she said. “Do let me look.”

Jonsen said nothing, continuing to stare with concentration.

“ Do let me look!” said Emily. “I haven’t ever looked through a telescope, ever!”

Jonsen abruptly snapped the glass to, and looked down at her. His usually expressionless features were stirred from their roots. He lifted one hand and gently began to stroke her hair.

“Do you love me?” he asked.

“Mm,” assented Emily. Later she added, with a wriggle, “You’re a darling.”