15/18 Mrs.Val had been speaking with bated breath, so that no one had heard her but she to whom she was speaking; but Gertrude had been unable so to confine her answers, and as she made her last reply Madame Jaquetanape and the Misses Neverbend were all ears. 'Upon my word, my dear, it is amusing to hear you take it up. However, I assure you I meant nothing but what was kind and friendly. Come, Clementina, we have been sitting here a most unconscionable time. Will you allow me, my dear, to ring for my carriage ?' 'Mamma,' said Clem, 'have you asked Mrs.Tudor to our little dance ?' 'No, my dear; I have left that for you to do. |