She was scolding the parlour-maid, whose high colour and dignified silence proclaimed her both blameless and long-suffering.

At the sight of Mrs.
Verrier Daphne checked herself with an effort and kissed her friend rather absently.
"Dear Madeleine!--very good of you to wait.

Have they given you tea?
I suppose not.

My household seems to have gone mad this afternoon.

Sit down.