"Oh, you are sure to be here, and you won't refuse me, I know; I'd rather be Juliet to your Romeo in my tableaux than—. But, oh, dear, the others have heard us, and I did so hope it would have been a little secret between us, you know."
And Lady Wyesdale affected a childish look of terror as she turned to her hostess, saying:
"You won't think us very dreadful, Lady Esmondet?"
"Oh, dear, no; there's nothing dreadful in a pictured love scene."
But in reality she felt annoyed that this silly woman should pretend to an understanding between Captain Trevalyon and herself.
"And you won't tell Miss Vernon," she continued, beseechingly, "I want her to be surprised."
Vaura and Rev. Robert had joined the group as Captain Trevalyon was saying, laughingly,
"I cannot promise you, Lady Wyesdale, I am in Lady Esmondet's hands; if, as I expect the 12th of January sees her at Haughton Hall, I cannot possibly be with you, unless my photo in the garb you wish will suit."
"Of course he will say so before them," thought the Duchess, aloud, she says tapping him on the arm with her cardcase, "Come to my box at the Theatre to-night, I want to consult you about something, since dear Harold died," and a corner of her handkerchief went to her eyes, "I often feel so alone."
"Thanks, I shall wait upon you as early as possible; to-night I go to the Quirinal."