And when it was grave, some people would have called it fine.
'And just think what it'll cost,' said Mrs.Gaddesden despondently, 'even if he had a case--which he probably hasn't--and if he were to win it.

There'll be no money left for Aubrey or any of us soon.' 'But of course he hasn't a case, and of course he can't win!' cried Margaret Strang.

'It's not that I care about--or the money--it's the disgrace!' 'Yes,' murmured Alice doubtfully.
'When you think--' Mrs.Strang paused; her bright blue eyes, alive with thoughts, were fixed absently on her sister.

She seemed to see a number of shabby streets, where she was accustomed to work, with little shabby shops, and placards on them--'No butter,' 'No milk,' and apples marked 4d.
each.
'Think what ?' said Alice.
Mrs.Strang's mind returned to Alice, and Alice's very elaborate and becoming _negligee_.
'Only that, in my opinion, it's the duty of every landowner to produce every ounce of food he can, and to do what he's told! And father not only sets a shocking example, but he picks this absurd quarrel with the Chicksands.

What on earth is Aubrey to do?
Or poor Beryl ?' 'Well, he comes to-night,' said Alice, 'so I suppose we shall hear.
I can't make Aubrey out,' she added reflectively.
'Nobody can.