She did not for a moment think that May was engaged, and, after all, Mr.Yabsley might even be married.
"Then why," cried Lady Ogram, furiously, "did you begin by terrifying me?
Did you do it on purpose?
If I thought so, I would send you packing about your business this moment!" Constance, who had not yet taken a seat, drew back a few steps.

Her face darkened.

With hands clasped behind her, she regarded the raging old autocrat coldly and sternly.
"If you wish it, Lady Ogram, I am quite ready to go." Their eyes encountered.

Lady Ogram was quivering, mumbling, gasping; her look fell.
"Sit down," she said imperatively.
"I am afraid," was Miss Bride's reply, "we had better not talk whilst you are feeling so unwell." "Sit down, I tell you! I wasn't unwell at all, till you made me so.

Who is this Yabsley?
Some low shopkeeper?
Some paltry clerk ?" The old lady knew very well that Constance Bride would never tremble before her.