She went on: “We are all so wretchedly poor in society now that we can’t afford to lose two millions. Besides, with his money and a seat in Parliament, they are sure to make him a peer.”
“I should think that very likely. The House of Lords is the one club in London where you can’t be blackballed.”
The marchioness condescended to smile.
“How wretchedly jealous and spiteful you are to-day! To come to the point. I have determined to do my duty to society by marrying Victoria to this man.”
“Congratulations! Let me see, ought I to call you a Spartan mother, or a Roman one? I really forget.”
The marchioness raised her hand in languid remonstrance.
“I begged you just now not to be clever. Unfortunately, there is an obstacle in the way.”
“Ah! I think I have heard something about a gallant cousin?” Despencer suggested.
“No, no. Victoria has far too much sense for that sort of thing. Besides, I don’t allow Gerald here now. No, the obstacle I mean is not a man, but a woman.”
“Ah! now I see it is going to be serious. Who is she?”