She, in her career as a leader of fashion, had no doubt met with some trouble,--with some trouble but with no disgrace; and as she had been carried about among the lakes and mountains, among the pictures and statues, among the counts and countesses, she had often felt that there was no happiness except in that dominion which circumstances had enabled her to achieve once, and might enable her to achieve again--in the realms of London society.
Then, in the early spring of 187--, they came back to England, having persistently carried out their project, at any rate in regard to time.

Lord Gerald, the younger son, was at once sent up to Trinity.
For the eldest son a seat was to be found in the House of Commons, and the fact that a dissolution of Parliament was expected served to prevent any prolonged sojourn abroad.

Lady Mary Palliser was at that time nineteen, and her entrance into the world was to be her mother's great care and great delight.

In March they spent a few days in London, and then went down to Matching Priory.

When she left town the Duchess was complaining of cold, sore throat, and debility.