"Put them away again, Katie; I shall not rise to-day. I have one of my very bad, nervous headaches. You may bring me a cup of strong coffee."
"Ah, honey, no wonder! I go bring it directly," said Katie, hurrying away with affectionate eagerness to bring the fragrant restorative.
A few minutes afterwards Katie entered with the tray, followed by the housekeeper, Mrs. Murdock, who came with anxious inquiries as to Lady Vincent's health.
"I have a very bad, nervous headache, which is not surprising, after all my fatigue," replied Claudia.
"Nay, indeed, and it is not, me leddy; you should lie quietly in bed to-day, and to-morrow you will be well," said the dame.
"Yes."
"And, me leddy, Mrs. Dugald bid me give her compliments to your leddyship, and ask if she should come and sit with you."
"I cannot receive Mrs. Dugald," said Claudia coldly.
"Ah, then I will say your leddyship is na weel enough to receive company?"
"Say what you please. I cannot receive Mrs. Dugald."