But his face never changed; only the pupils of his eyes contracted a little; and he drew a quiet, deep breath of satisfaction.

He had always hoped for an interview with her, his father's step-mother, and he knew that he had the advantage; for he was armed with a very fair knowledge of her, imparted to him by his father, who thought it well to put him on his guard; and of him she knew nothing.
"Who's this little girl ?" said Lady Beauleigh, surveying Elsie with her insolent stare.

"Send her away.

I want to talk to you alone." "This is my adopted sister, Elsie.

You may talk before her; it doesn't matter how confidential it is.