"But you really must," she persisted. "I particularly want to tell Nancy a secret,—though Mrs. De Wolfe says she can't keep one,—and that her face always gives her away."
"One of your good stories, I suppose; well, I may as well hear it too!"
"No, no," protested Nancy, with a nervous laugh, "I never listen to Josie's stories,—one, was more than enough!"
Mrs. Speyde knew from long experience, that her brother could be stubborn when it suited him, so she said, "Well, don't ask me to oblige you, dear Tony, next time you are in a hole, or otherwise." Then turning to Nancy, "I'll come in early this evening and talk, whilst you are dressing," and with a nod, she wheeled her horse about, and rode away.
At half-past seven, as Nancy, seated before her glass, was taking down her masses of hair, there was a sharp knock at the door, which the maid opened, and Mrs. Speyde sailed in. A shimmering cloak covered her smart French gown, and a diamond bandeau sparkled in her black hair. As she advanced, she discarded the mantle, and displayed a smart, and very décolleté red gown.
"I've got 'em all on to-night!" she announced. Then, as the maid disappeared, she sat down, crossed her knees, and took out a cigarette. "A cigarette makes me talk," she added. "This is a Doucet frock, Nancy, what do you think of it? My maid says the body has no back!"
"Nor much front either," said Nancy, as she inspected her friend; "indeed I call it an affront," and she laughed.
"How dare you?"
"Oh, I'm so thin, it's all right! Now on you,—it might be——" and she hesitated.
"Impossible!" declared Nancy.