"No, thank you. I prefer even this chill keen air to a close carriage. My cloak protects me perfectly."
"As you like."
Raven stooped, drew up a rug which had slipped to their feet, and wrapped it round his companion's slender form. Then she said, in a low and almost timid voice:
"Uncle Arno, I have a request to make to you."
"I am listening," he replied laconically.
"If this close intercourse with Colonel Wilten's family is to be kept up in town, let me be dispensed from sharing in it."
"Why?"
"Because, during our stay in the country, I have discovered that mamma was following out a premeditated plan in accepting that invitation--a plan which you favour."
"I favour nothing," said Raven, coldly. "Your mother is guided by her own wishes, and acts on her own responsibility. I take no part in the matter."
"But they will ask for your decision," returned Gabrielle. "At least, mamma hinted to me that Albert von Wilten would shortly apply to you with a request which----"