There was not a caterer as at the first reception, but Ida herself cooked dainty messes in a silver chafing-dish, and Maria and the white-capped little maid passed things.

It was not especially expensive, but people in Edgham began to talk.

They said Harry was living beyond his means; but Ida kept within his income.

She had too good a head for reckless extravagance, although she loved admiration and show.

When there were no guests in the house, Maria used to go to her own room early of an evening, and read until it was time to go to bed.