– The house is surrounded by a small garden with a few statues and comfortable benches," added Mr. William Brown. – If you think of renting the house, you need not worry about buying furniture; Mr. Tanlis left his own there, and I must say it is quite expensive and still in good condition.
– But where shall I keep my horse? – Anthony inquired.
– There is a small stable on the grounds, sir, but I'm afraid it can't hold more than three horses.
– Well, that's just as well!" said the young man cheerfully, thinking that he had only one horse in his personal possession, which he had bought at his own expense.
Anthony had no desire to take with him what did not belong to him. Nothing, not even sheets and blankets. No, he would buy everything himself. He would never again be dependent on his mother and her favours.
– If you wish, sir, I will take charge of procuring the necessary household items, bedding, curtains, and other furnishings. I can also find you a couple of servants," Mr. Brown said, as if he had read his client's mind.
– I would be incredibly grateful for your help. Of course, I'll pay all the expenses. Make this house cosy, but please don't go overboard: my budget is very tight. I think a cook and a maid will be enough… Oh, yes, and a stable boy, but tell him that in addition to looking after my horse he will also have to help in the house," Anthony said firmly, already looking forward to the moment when he would enter his own house, where he would have his own rules, and where breakfast would be served when he woke up. – How many days will it take you to decorate the house?
– I'll try to get it done in the next few days, sir," said Mr. Brown. – Small houses are much easier and quicker to furnish than large villas. But I'll need an exact figure for the budget, sir.
Anthony gave him a sum, quite generous.
– Excellent, sir. Then, if you'll allow me, I'll get on it now,' he received in reply. – As soon as the house is ready for you, you can check it out for yourself, and if you're satisfied, it's yours.
A formal contract was then signed between the parties, including Mr. Brown's fees, and both client and guest, satisfied with what had been achieved, left the house.
Remembering the unhappy expression on Vivian's face as she left Lillehus yesterday, young Cranford decided to have a chat with her before he and Jeremy went hunting. Knowing that on every hunt of his friend, the one always accompanied by Aurelius and Mark, the clever hunting dogs, Anthony did not take his dogs. Soon, dressed in a comfortable hunting suit, a warm fur-lined cloak, high leather boots with fur inside, gloves and hat, the young man galloped over to Wington Hall.