"That is a most excellent idea," she said slowly, partly because it sounded sympathetic and partly in order to gain time. "But perhaps Miss Easter might feel rather shy in the presence of so many people who would be strange to her. What about a little informal tea-party? But, of course, all that can be settled later. What are you thinking of giving her?"
"Nothing has been actually decided upon, though I should suggest some little thing in silver. The ladies always like silver. I remember selecting a wedding-present for a lady friend," said Cooper, looking slightly sentimental, "that proved highly acceptable. A silver serviette-ring it was, with her initials—her new initials—engraved upon it."
"I'm sure it was delightful, and Miss Easter is certain to like anything that you all choose."
"We all know her, and she's been here quite a lot lately, and of course Mr. Mark Easter does a great deal for the staff, and we're all very fond of him," added Cooper, with a sudden outburst of naturalness.
Edna, in common with quite a number of other people, always underwent, more or less unconsciously, a slight stirring of resentment at any spontaneous tribute to someone else's popularity.
It was perhaps this which moved her to a rather thin and repressive smile.
"It will gratify Mr. Easter very much indeed, I know. And after all, it's the thought that is of real value—not the offering. Do tell the staff how very much I hope they will let me hear any further ideas."
"Thanks very much, Lady Rossiter," said Cooper, rather stiffly.
Edna, dissatisfied, reflected for a moment.
"Couldn't you all come out to Culmhayes and talk it over with me?" she enquired, as by an inspiration. "We might form a little committee, and go into ways and means, and perhaps I could find out some trifle that would please Miss Easter, and let you know. How would that be?"