That she excited comment was manifest, for many looks were turned to her corner.

The criticisms on her were complimentary or the reverse.

"Isn't she perfectly _sweet_ ?" gushed a young lady at Irene's left.

"Sweet?
She ought to be in the nursery instead of showing off here!" came a tart voice in reply, from some one whose face was invisible but whose back and shoulders expressed an attitude of strong disapproval.

"Hope we shan't be boxed up with her in the same carriage to Paris! I vote we give her a wide berth at Calais." Irene laughed softly.