CHAPTER XIX.
AT ROSAMUND'S POND In the course of the day Lavinia made the acquaintance of Mrs.Egleton.
The landlady had told the actress how Spiller had brought Lavinia and how the latter was to appear at the New Theatre.

Mrs.Egleton, a dark young woman somewhat pallid and with eyes which suggested that she had a temper which she would be ready to show if put out, was languid and patronising.

Though it was past noon the lady had not long got out of bed, and her dress was careless, her hair straggling, her complexion sallow and the dark half circles beneath her eyes were significant of nerve exhaustion.

She had in fact the night before sat up late gaming, dancing, eating, drinking--especially drinking--with a party of friends.
The time was to come when she and Lavinia would be closely associated, but at that moment it was the last thing that entered into the heads of either.
Mindful of her appointment Lavinia set out early.

She had taken great pains over her toilet and she looked very attractive.