Since that dialogue in the library, not a word regarding Miss Tomalin had escaped her; all at once she said: "My niece is due here at four this afternoon.

I want you to be with me when she comes into the room.

You won't forget that ?" Never before had Constance seen the old autocrat suffering from nervousness; it was doubtful whether anyone at any time had enjoyed the privilege.

Strange to say, this abnormal state of things did not irritate Lady Ogram's temper; she was remarkably mild, and for once in her life seemed to feel it no indignity to stand in need of moral support.

Long before the time for Miss Tomalin's arrival, she established herself on her throne amid the drawing-room verdure.
Constance tried to calm her by reading aloud, but this the old lady soon found unendurable.
"I wonder whether the train will be late ?" she said.