"We do not 'adopt tacks' in England," returned her ladyship calmly; "and as I consider myself responsible for your actions while you are under my roof, I shall not allow you to go to Basingstoke, or anywhere else, with a person who, whatever his official position, is totally unknown to me."
"You don't mean to keep me here against my will!"
"I mean to send you to your relations, wherever they are, under the charge of my butler—a most respectable married man—provided the journey can be accomplished between now and nightfall."
"Well, it can't," replied her grand-niece triumphantly. "Aunt Eliza left for Paris this morning, and all my other relations are in Chicago."
Lady Melton was, however, a woman of decision, and not to be easily baffled.
"Then I will send you to your mother-in-law, Lady Scarsdale; I suppose she has returned to 'The Towers'?"
"I believe so. But I do not intend to go there without my husband; it would be ignominious."
"Perhaps you can suggest a better plan," said her ladyship coldly.
"Well, if you refuse to let me go to Basingstoke——" began the bride.
"I do. Proceed."