He has a very fine situation, and he really should be contented.' This was intolerable to Gertrude.

She felt that she must put Mrs.
Val down, and yet she hardly knew how to do it without being absolutely rude; whereas her husband had specially begged her to be civil to this woman at present.

'Oh,' said she, with a slight smile, 'Mr.Tudor will be able to take care of himself; you will find, I hope, that there is no cause for uneasiness.' 'Well, I hope not, I am sure I hope not,' said Mrs.Val, looking very grave.

'But I tell you fairly that the confidence which we all have in your husband will be much shaken if he does anything rash.

He should think of this, you know.