The gossip concerning this stranger's appearance in Dreymarsh was practically strangled.

Mrs.Johnson, however, fired a parting shot as she rose to go.
"You were not in the same regiment as Major Felstead, were you, Mr.
Lessingham ?" she asked.

"No," he answered calmly.
Philippa was busy with her adieux.

Mrs.Johnson remained indomitable.
"What was your regiment, Mr.Lessingham ?" she persisted.

"You must forgive my seeming inquisitive, but I am so interested in military affairs." Lessingham bowed courteously.
"I do not remember alluding to my soldiering at all," he said coolly, "but as a matter of fact I am in the Guards." Mrs.Johnson accepted Philippa's hand and the inevitable.