"Poor Uncle Ted! Why shouldn't he like to talk to her as much as you do?"
Sidney's eyes were mischievous, but for once Austin did not join in her humour.
"I hope I shan't be so garrulous when I get to his age," he muttered.
In accordance with her promise, Sidney went up to Thanning Towers the next morning, but though Mrs. de Cressiers was unfeignedly glad to see her, nothing would induce her to call upon Mrs. Norman that same day.
"It's perfectly ridiculous, Sidney. Of course, I know that Austin has sent you to me. He seems quite infatuated with her. And it is a thousand pities. I have heard all about her in town. She married her husband for the sake of a home, neglected him whilst alive, and now poses as a broken-hearted widow. She couldn't be bothered to bring up her own child; found her an encumbrance when travelling about, and she has been brought up entirely by her father's family. Why she has come down here, I cannot fathom. She has five hundred a year of her own, but has very extravagant tastes. Now, is she a suitable wife for Austin?"
"I should see her and judge for myself," said Sidney craftily. Then she added quietly:
"I think if you oppose Austin in the matter you will perhaps hurry him into an engagement with her, when otherwise the acquaintance may die a natural death."
Mrs. de Cressiers sighed.
"I wish you and Austin would make a match of it. He is really fond of you, Sidney."
Sidney laughed gaily.