Younger men declared her to be "a real pal," and with some of the older beaux she would flirt and be amused by their flattering speeches.
Gabrielle's mother, the second daughter of Lord Buckhurst, had been dead several years when the brilliant politician met his second wife at a garden-party at Dollis Hill.

She was daughter of a man named Lambert, a paper manufacturer, who acted as political agent in the town of Bedford; and she was, therefore, essentially a country cousin.

Her beauty was, however, remarked everywhere.

The Baronet was struck by her, and within three months they were married at St.George's, Hanover Square, the world congratulating her upon a very excellent match.

From the very first, however, the difference in the ages of husband and wife proved a barrier.