I came entirely on your account, because something was happening to you--and Lord Dunstable--which you didn't know, and which made me--very sorry for you!" Lady Dunstable started slightly.
"Happening to me ?--and Lord Dunstable ?" "I have been seeing your son, Lady Dunstable." An instant change passed over the countenance of that lady.

It darkened, and the eyes became cold and wary.
"Indeed?
I didn't know you were acquainted with him." "I never saw him till a few days ago.

Then I saw him--in my uncle's studio--with a woman--a woman to whom he is engaged." Lady Dunstable started again.
"I think you must be mistaken," she said quickly, with a slight but haughty straightening of her shoulders.
Doris shook her head.
"No, I am not mistaken.

I will tell you--if you don't mind--exactly what I have heard and seen." And with a puckered brow and visible effort she entered on the story of the happenings of which she had been a witness in Bentley's studio.

She was perfectly conscious--for a time--that she was telling it against a dead weight of half scornful, half angry incredulity on Lady Dunstable's part.