"And she says that Mr.Ratcliffe was a friend of her husband's and that you could tell me about that." "Did she say so ?" remarked Carrington vaguely.
"Yes! and that she knew every one's weak points and could get all their votes." Carrington expressed no surprise, and so evidently preferred to change the subject, that Mrs.Lee desisted and said no more.
But she determined to try the same experiment on Mr.Ratcliffe, and chose the very next chance that offered.

In her most indifferent manner she remarked that Mrs.Sam Baker had called upon her and had initiated her into the mysteries of the lobby till she had become quite ambitious to start on that career.
"She said you were a friend of her husband's," added Madeleine softly.
Ratcliffe's face betrayed no sign.
"If you believe what those people tell you," said he drily, "you will be wiser than the Queen of Sheba.".