“In that case,” said Richard, dryly, “let us hope the Lord will protect you, since it is for love of Him you go into a she-fox's den.”
No reply was vouchsafed to this aspiration, the words being the words of faith, but the voice the voice of skepticism.
Mrs. Bassett put on her bonnet, and went to Huntercombe Hall.
After a very short delay she was ushered upstairs, to the room where Lady Bassett was lying on a sofa.
Lady Bassett heard her coming, and rose to receive her.
She made Mrs. Bassett a court courtesy so graceful and profound that it rather frightened the little woman. Seeing which, Lady Bassett changed her style, and came forward, extending both hands with admirable grace, and gentle amity, not overdone.
Mrs. Bassett gave her both hands, and they looked full at each other in silence, till the eyes of both ladies began to fill.
“You would have come—like this—years ago—at a word?” faltered Lady Bassett.
“Yes,” gulped Mrs. Bassett.
Then there was another long pause.