"If you would but learn diplomacy, my dear lady!" Sir Michael Auberon sighed.

But diplomacy seemed likely to be the last thing Lady Agatha Chenevix would learn.
Mary used to sit under Mrs.Morres's wing, and listen, through her witty and wise talk, to the utterances of the great.

She felt very shy of these companies of distinguished men and women.

Lady Agatha made one or two attempts to draw her closer.

Then, perceiving that she was happier in her corner, she let her be.
In her corner Mary listened.