"Yes," she replied, and then boldly added: "I have not taken a situation yet; but I intend to see about one immediately," and she looked straight at her aunt, who encountered her gaze with sullen hostility.
This unexpected reinforcement by Mrs. De Wolfe had given Nancy a species of ephemeral, or "Dutch" courage.
"Oh, are you, my dear? But before you arrange anything definite, I hope you will come and pay me a little visit. I am staying for a couple of weeks at Brown's Hotel, in Dover Street, and shall be glad to have your company at once."
The eyes of Mrs. Jenkins and Mrs. Taylor met; their expression was significant.
"You are very kind," replied the former, now addressing her visitor, "but my niece is not leaving me—as far as I am aware—but I shall be pleased to spare her to you, for a few days."
"Thank you very much," replied Mrs. De Wolfe. "Then if you will allow me, I will call for her to-morrow."
At this moment other visitors were announced, and Nancy's ally rose and took leave. As she pressed the girl's hand she murmured:
"Had you not better come down with me to the hall,—and see that I don't carry off the umbrellas?"
On the landing, she halted opposite the stuffed dog, and said:
"My poor dear child! The door was ajar, and I heard every word about the cigarettes, the electric light, the reading in bed, the penniless orphan, and Mrs. Devine. What people! As for the big, dark woman, with the red face, positively she frightened me!—she is like a Gorgon!"