Won't it look odd to see a lady at the bottom of the table ?" "I have promised my dear nephew to act as mistress, and to see after his guests; and I don't choose to sit at the side under those circumstances." But she had looked at Lord Hartledon, and hesitated before she spoke.
Perhaps she thought his lordship would resign the head of the table to her, and take the foot himself.

If so, she was mistaken.
"You will be more comfortable at the side, Lady Kirton," cried Lord Hartledon, when he discovered what the bustle was about.
"Not at all, Hartledon; not at all." "But I like my brother to face me, ma'am.

It is his accustomed place." Remonstrance was useless.

The dowager nodded her pea-green turban, and firmly seated herself.

Val Elster dexterously found a seat next Lady Maude; and a gay gleam of triumph shot out of his deep-blue eyes as he glanced at the dowager.