In the first place, even that allusion to her little troubles jarred upon her feelings; and then she thought that her rejection of Mr Grey could be no special reason why she should go to Matching Priory.

Was it not very possible that she had been invited that she might meet Lady Midlothian there, and encounter all the strength of a personal battery from the Countess?
Lady Glencora's letter she would of course answer, but to Lady Midlothian she would not condescend to make any reply whatever.
About eleven o'clock Lady Macleod came down to her.

For half-an-hour or so Alice said nothing; nor did Lady Macleod ask any question.

She looked inquisitively at Alice, eyeing the letter which was lying by the side of her niece's workbasket, but she said no word about Mr Grey or the Countess.

At last Alice spoke.
"Aunt," she said, "I have had a letter this morning from your friend, Lady Midlothian." "She is my cousin, Alice; and yours as much as mine." "Your cousin then, aunt.