They were flattered, the uncle especially so; I expect he had been wanting to get into Society--and as for the girl, she seemed overcome with delight! A very second-class little creature I thought her.

No style! No suppression of her real feelings! She said at once how glad she would be to come to me; she gave me the impression that she would be glad to get away from her uncle! No idea of _hiding_ anything! So strange!" "Strange enough to be almost a fresh fashion.

Fancy her saying she would be glad to come to _you!_ No wonder you were startled!" "Well, she's here," says Lady Rylton, furling her fan.

Mrs.
Bethune's little sarcasm has been lost upon her.

"And now, how to _use_ her?
Maurice, though I have thrust the idea upon him, seems averse to it." "The idea ?" "Of marrying her, of course, and so redeeming himself.