Mrs.Duff-Whalley and Muriel, their sables and their Rolls-Royce, ceased to be great weights crushing life and light out of her, and became small, ordinary, rather vulgar figures; she forgot her own home-made frock and shabby slippers; and even the fire seemed to feel that things were brightening, for a flame struggled through the backing and gave promise of future cheerfulness.
"Oh, Pamela!" cried Jean.

There was more of relief and appeal in her voice than she knew, and Pamela, seeing the visitors, prepared to do battle.
"I thought I should surprise you, Jean, girl.

I came by the two train, for I was determined to be here in time for tea." She slipped off her coat and took Jean in her arms.

"It is good to be back....

Ah, Mrs.
Duff-Whalley, how are you?
Have you kept Priorsford lively through the Christmas-time, you and your daughter ?" "Well, I was just telling Jean we've done our best.