CHAPTER XI.
In the spring, Joan, at Mrs.Denton's request, undertook a mission.

It was to go to Paris.

Mrs.Denton had meant to go herself, but was laid up with sciatica; and the matter, she considered, would not brook of any delay.
"It's rather a delicate business," she told Joan.

She was lying on a couch in her great library, and Joan was seated by her side.

"I want someone who can go into private houses and mix with educated people on their own level; and especially I want you to see one or two women: they count in France.