During the weeks that followed the Meadowses' first visit to Crosby Ledgers, Doris's conscience was by no means asleep on the subject of Lady Dunstable.

She felt that her behaviour in that lady's house, and the sudden growth in her own mind of a quite unmanageable dislike, were not to be defended in one who prided herself on a general temper of coolness and common sense, who despised the rancour and whims of other women, hated scenes, and had always held jealousy to be the smallest and most degrading of passions.

Why not laugh at what was odious, show oneself superior to personal slights, and enjoy what could be enjoyed?
And above all, why grudge Arthur a woman friend?
None of these arguments, however, availed at all to reconcile Doris to the new intimacy growing under her eyes.

The Dunstables came to town, and invitations followed.

Mr.and Mrs.Meadows were asked to a large dinner-party, and Doris held her peace and went.