I could not avoid hearing what you have said, and as listeners hear no good of themselves, I venture to interrupt.

I am anxious that your first impression of me should be a good one, Madam!" She dropped him a curtsy which was grace itself, her dark eyes looking straight into his face.

Surprise brought a slightly heightened color to her cheek.

Seeing her perturbation, the unbidden guest hastened to make what amends were possible.
[Illustration: She dropped him a curtsy.] "You were saying it was a mistake, dear lady.

But if so, the intrusion was on my part.