The alderman bowed, much gratified at being supposed to know anything whatever on the subject.
“Of course, what I am going to say to you is in confidence,” the marchioness proceeded. “I am sure you would not dream of mentioning to Mr. Hammond that we had been here.”
“Certainly not. Your ladyship may trust me absolutely. Not a soul shall know of it.”
“I have heard Mr. Hammond speak of you so often that I feel you are quite an old friend. No doubt he has talked of us to you?”
The alderman smiled feebly. He would have given a good deal to be able to say yes, but could not quite bring himself to it.
“Perhaps I ought to say he has talked of my daughter, Lady Victoria?”
Alderman Dobbin had never heard of such a person as Lady Victoria. His smile became feebler still. The marchioness coughed discreetly, and glanced towards Despencer. He came gallantly to the rescue.
“It has been understood for some time that Mr. Hammond was likely to marry Lady Victoria, as, of course, you know.”
“Yes, of course; quite so,” jerked out the alderman, deeply ashamed of his ignorance on the point.
The marchioness heaved a sigh.