Will you wear the smoke-grey to-night, madam?
I am keeping the pink for the ball on Thursday." Stella allowed a moment or two to pass before she answered.
"I shan't go to the Willoughbys' ball, Jenny." Jenny Prask stared in dismay.
"You won't, madam!" "No, Jenny.

But I want you to be careful not to mention it to any one.

I shall dress as if I was going, but at the last moment I shall plead a headache and stay behind." "Very well, madam," said Jenny.

But it seemed to her that Stella was throwing down her arms.

Stella, however, had understood, upon hearing of the invitation for Lady Splay's party, that she could do nothing else.
The Willoughbys were strict folk.