"I have been for some time looking out for a companion," she said; "Lady Peters really must live at Verdun Royal--a housekeeper is not sufficient for that large establishment--it requires more than that. She has consented to make it her home, and I must have some one to be with me."
"You have the duke," he put in, wonderingly.
"True, and a husband most, perforce, be all that is adorable; still, having been accustomed to a lady-companion, I prefer keeping one; and this girl, so beautiful, so pure, so simple, is all that I need, or could wish for."
"So I should imagine," he replied. "Will you introduce her into society, Philippa?"
"I think not; she is a simple child, yet wonderfully clever. No, society shall not have her. I will keep her for my own."
"What is her name?" asked Lord Arleigh.
The duchess laughed.
"Ah, now, man-like, you are growing curious! I shall not tell you. Yes, I will; it is the name above all others for an ideal--Madaline."
"Madaline," he repeated; "it is very musical--Madaline."
"It suits her," said the duchess; "and now, Norman, I must go. I have some pressing engagements to-day."