“My child, I thought that question had been asked and answered two years ago at Old Lyon Hall.”
“So it was, you dear uncle, answered in a way to give me pleasure as well as peace. But the circumstances are different now from what they were then. Then we were in your own familiar neighborhood, among your own old country friends and neighbors, who loved and honored you so much that they would have received with gladness and courtesy any one whom you might choose to present as a member of your family. But here, dear uncle, it is different; we are in a foreign city and among strangers.”
“Yes, my child, but among strangers who are hospitable and courteous; and to whom I have brought such letters of introduction as must secure a hearty welcome both to myself and every member of my family. Have no fears or doubts, little Drusa. You who are blameless must not be ‘sent to Coventry’ as if you were faulty.”
Drusilla sighed and continued:
“Uncle, there is another circumstance that complicates the case very much.”
“Well, my dear, and what is it?”
“At home I was known as Mrs. Lyon, which was my true name; but here, since Alick has made good his claim to the Scotch barony, I have another name and title,” said Drusilla, so solemnly that the General laid down his fork and laughed heartily as he answered:
“And so, my dear, you want us to introduce you as Lady Killcrichtoun!”
“Oh, no, no, NO!” exclaimed Drusilla, earnestly, “not so! I do not want that! I would not consent to it! Indeed I would not! Anna can tell you that I said so last night!”
“And you are right, my child, entirely right; and I commend your good sense in making such a resolution. But where then is your difficulty, my dear?”