At Ravensham House on the borders of Richmond Park, suburban seat of the Casterley family, ever since it became usual to have a residence within easy driving distance of Westminster--in a large conservatory adjoining the hall, Lady Casterley stood in front of some Japanese lilies.

She was a slender, short old woman, with an ivory-coloured face, a thin nose, and keen eyes half-veiled by delicate wrinkled lids.

Very still, in her grey dress, and with grey hair, she gave the impression of a little figure carved out of fine, worn steel.

Her firm, spidery hand held a letter written in free somewhat sprawling style: MONKLAND COURT, "DEVON.
"MY DEAR, MOTHER, "Geoffrey is motoring up to-morrow.

He'll look in on you on the way if he can.