The Countess-Dowager of Kirton is coming as Hartledon's mistress for the time being." "Oh!" said Mirrable, who had once had the honour of seeing the Countess-Dowager of Kirton.

And the monosyllable was so significant that Val Elster drew down the corners of his mouth.
"I don't like the Countess-Dowager, sir," remarked Mirrable in her freedom.
"I can't bear her," returned Val Elster..