smallhobbit

“Who is?” Violet Buckle asked.  Her mind was still engaged with the list of supplies she would need to order for the following week.

“Robert, of course.  I got to push the pram.”

Violet smiled at Reggie; his enthusiasm was a joy to her.  “So you had a good time,” she said.

“Yes, and they’ve said I can go again.”

“That’s wonderful.”

Violet glanced over at Fred, who had followed Reggie into the kitchen.

Fred nodded, smiling.  “I think it was good for everyone.  They’re making Reggie an honorary uncle.”

“I’m so pleased.  And now it’s almost dinnertime.  Could you lay the table for us, please, Reggie.”

Reggie went to fetch the cutlery and Fred took the opportunity to say quietly, “There’s something else, but I’ll tell you later.”

It wasn’t until the evening that Fred and Violet were alone together, but then Violet asked, “What did you have to tell me?  It’s nothing bad, is it?”

“Not at all,” Fred said with a smile.  “The Dellows wanted to know if it would be appropriate for Reggie to be one of Robert’s godfathers.  I couldn’t see why not, but said I’d check with you anyway.”

“Reggie would be delighted.  And you know he’d take his duties seriously.  How very thoughtful of them.”

“Walt said they wanted Robert to have someone he’d look up to as a good example, and he and Blanche couldn’t think of anyone who would be better than Reggie.”

Violet bit her lip.  “Oh, what a lovely thing to say.  Doesn’t it make you feel proud of him?”

Fred nodded.  “Very proud indeed!”