It was with a little flutter that she was shown in; but she recollected that Mrs.Charmond would probably be alone.

Up to a few days before this time that lady had been accompanied in her comings, stayings, and goings by a relative believed to be her aunt; latterly, however, these two ladies had separated, owing, it was supposed, to a quarrel, and Mrs.Charmond had been left desolate.

Being presumably a woman who did not care for solitude, this deprivation might possibly account for her sudden interest in Grace.
Mrs.Charmond was at the end of a gallery opening from the hall when Miss Melbury was announced, and saw her through the glass doors between them.

She came forward with a smile on her face, and told the young girl it was good of her to come.
"Ah! you have noticed those," she said, seeing that Grace's eyes were attracted by some curious objects against the walls.

"They are man-traps.