CHAPTER XIII
THE FOLLY OF SIMPLICITY
Together they entered the central hall, and saw Mariana standing waiting there. When she saw Rosalie she stepped towards her, but on seeing Mr. Barringcourt beyond her she stood still.
“What are you waiting for?” he asked.
“For Rosalie. It is long past her time for coming in.”
“You have wonderful patience to stand here waiting. Anyone else would have gone to look for her.”
“If one waits long enough one generally gets what one wants,” she answered, rather irrelevantly.
“Well, don’t stand there any longer. You’re not needed.”
“Thank you.”
She turned away with grace and easy dignity, and walked toward the staircase; but when there she looked across at Rosalie.
“Tea is ready.”