“I don't know; that was afore my time” (rather pertly).
“Of course it was, or you couldn't imitate her.”
On reaching home she ordered a light dinner upstairs, and sent directions to the coachman and grooms.
At nine next morning the four-in-hand came round, and they started for the asylum—coachman and two more in brave liveries; two outriders.
Twenty miles from Huntercombe they changed the wheelers, two fresh horses having been sent on at night.
They drove in at the lodge-gate of Bellevue House, which was left ostentatiously open, and soon drew up at the hall door, and set many a pale face peeping from the upper windows.
The door opened; the respectable servant came out with a respectful air.
“Is Mr. Salter at home, sir?”
“No, madam. Mr. Coyne is in charge to-day.”
Lady Bassett was glad to hear that, and asked if she might be allowed to see Mr. Coyne.