As she knew well, when roused the Colonel was a man with a bitter tongue and a good memory.
"I am sure I am the last person who would wish to do mischief," she said in a humble voice.
"Of course, I know that, I know that.

Well, now we understand each other, so I must be turning home.

Thank you so much for having been quite candid with me.

Good morning, Miss Layard; remember me to Stephen." "Phew!" reflected the Colonel to himself, "that battle is won--after a fashion--but just about forty-eight hours too late.

By this time that vixen of a woman has put the story all over the place.