"Again I say that I knew she'd spoil the story," Langdon said with a smile.
The announcement of carriages, and the departure of the Frostwinches brought the talk to an end. When Mrs. Neligage had said good-night and was leaving the drawing-room, Langdon stood at the door.
"You got out of that well," he said.
She gave him a look which should have withered him.
"It is a brave man that tries to blacken a woman's name," she answered; and went on her way.
In the dressing-room was Alice, who had gone a moment before. Mrs. Neligage went up to her and took her by the arms.
"How did you know that I needed to have a plank thrown to me?" she demanded. "Did I show it so much?"
Alice flushed and smiled.
"If I must tell the truth," she answered, "you looked just as I saw Jack look once in a hard place."
Mrs. Neligage laughed, and kissed her.