Mr. Fitzalan bent his head in answer. He showed himself in no hurry to offer an opinion.
"My brother-in-law has just decided on a move to East Bourne for a few weeks, and the idea is unpleasant to Hermione. I do, not know why, for East Bourne is a particularly charming place. No doubt the change will do her good, if she can make up her mind to it."
Julia broke in at this point, colouring distressfully. "I am not sure whether my husband is at home just now, if you wish to see him—but perhaps—"
"No; we met him on our way here. Harry is leaving to-morrow, and we came for a good-bye word with Hermione."
"Yes. So very unfortunate," Mrs. Trevor observed blandly. "But perhaps she will come down presently. A girlish tiff of this sort doesn't usually last long. Hermione is a charming girl, but singularly young for her years."
"I don't think we can wait," Harry said gruffly. "Marjory is expecting us—" and he looked at his father.
"Hermione must come to the Rectory instead," Mr. Fitzalan observed, though privately he felt sure that Hermione would not come until after his son's departure. He called Mittie to his side, and talked about the kitten, with his arm round the child; but even Mittie seemed bewildered, not able to respond as usual; and after paying as short a call as possible, the two gentlemen took their leave.
Francesca threw herself back, with a singular expression, as the door closed behind them.
"Well, I don't envy that girl's sensations. To make such a complete exposé of herself! The saintliness is for once at fault!"
Mittie stood near, gazing with eyes full of wonder. "What was cousin Hermione so dreadfully angry about?"