"Painted by Kneller," said Lady Amelia, proudly.
"Oh, indeed," said Miss Tallowax.
"There is some doubt as to that," said Lady Sarah. "I have found out that Sir Godfrey Kneller was only born in 1648, and as the first earl died a year or two after the restoration, I don't know that he could have done it."
"It was always said that it was painted by Kneller," said Lady Amelia.
"There has been a mistake, I fear," said Lady Sarah.
"Oh, indeed," said Miss Tallowax, looking up with intense admiration at a very
ill-drawn old gentleman in armour. Then they entered the state dining-room or hall, and Miss Tallowax was informed that the room had not been used for any purpose whatever for very many years. "And such a beautiful room!" said Miss Tallowax, with much regret.
"The fact is, I believe, that the chimney smokes horribly," said Lord George.
"I never remember a fire here," said Lady Sarah. "In very cold weather we have a portable stove brought in, just to preserve the furniture. This is called the old ball room."
"Dear me!" ejaculated Miss Tallowax, looking round at the faded yellow hangings.