Jacintha, it seemed, had been volunteering some remark that was not well received, for the baroness was saying, sharply, "Your opinion is not asked.

Go down directly, and bring him up here, to this room." Jacintha cast a look of dismay at Rose, and vanished.
Rose gathered from that look, as much as from the words, who the visitor was.

She made a dart after Jacintha.

But the room was a long one, and the baroness intercepted her: "No," said she, gravely, "I cannot spare you." Rose stood pale and panting, but almost defiant.

"Mamma," said she, "if it is Monsieur Riviere, I MUST ask your leave to retire.