The reflections ensued: as in nature, the consequences were all seen subsequently! Observe the difference between your male and female Generals.
On reflection, too, the Countess praised herself for having done all that could be done.

She might have written to her mother: but her absence would have been remarked: her messenger might have been overhauled and, lastly, Mrs.Mel--'Gorgon of a mother!' the Countess cried out: for Mrs.Mel was like a Fate to her.

She could remember only two occasions in her whole life when she had been able to manage her mother, and then by lying in such a way as to distress her conscience severely.
'If Mama has conceived this idea of coming, nothing will impede her.

My prayers will infuriate her!' said the Countess, and she was sure that she had acted both rightly and with wisdom.
She put on her armour of smiles: she plunged into the thick of the enemy.

Since they would not allow her to taste human happiness--she had asked but for the pic-nic! a small truce! since they denied her that, rather than let them triumph by seeing her wretched, she took into her bosom the joy of demons.