The little sitting-room is in a turret and is octagon-shaped, a dainty, charming, old-world room that grandmamma might have lived in.
We drew two chairs up to the fire and sat down cosily.
How kind and gracious and altogether charming this woman can be! Again I can only compare her to the sun's rays, so warm and comfortable she makes one feel. There is a nobleness and a loftiness about her which causes even ordinary things she says to sound like fine sentiments. No wonder Mr. Budge adores her.
We spoke very little of people. She told me of her interests and all the schemes to benefit mankind she has in hand. At last she said:
"You have not been to Dane Mount yet, have you?"
"No. We are going there on Monday, after we leave here."
"It will interest you deeply, I am sure." And she looked into the fire. "Antony stayed with you, did he not?"
"Yes," I said, and my voice sounded strained, remembering that terrible visit.
She was silent for a few moments.
"I want you to be friends with me, dear," she said, so gently. "You are, perhaps, not always quite happy, and if ever I can do anything for you I want you to know I will."