"I never speak of it," she went on, twisting a ring around her fingers nervously, "I don't like it mentioned, but I was really engaged to young Lord Fanleighton." He murmured a little word of sympathy, and their conversation was momentarily interrupted as she leaned forward to answer an enquiry from her host.

Wingate turned to Sarah, who was seated at his other side.
"How dare you neglect me so shamefully!" she asked.
"Let me make amends," he pleaded.
"I am glad you feel penitent, at any rate.

I expect Miss Flossie Lane has asked you what you think of her friend, Miss Orford, and told you that she was engaged to Lord Fanleighton." "What a hearing!" he murmured.
"Don't be silly," she replied.

"I couldn't hear a word, but I know her stock in trade." There was a little stir at the farther end of the table.

Lord Dredlinton had left his place and was standing behind Phipps, with his hands upon his shoulders.