"I wish you would have the consideration not to disturb us at this hour, my dear Dinah," said Lady Grace peevishly. "What is it you want now?"
"I am sorry," said Dinah meekly. "But I heard your voices, so I knew you weren't asleep. I just came in to say that Billy and I are going luging if you don't mind."
"What next?" said Lady Grace, still fretful. "Of course I don't mind so long as you don't get up to mischief."
"Dinah, come here!" said the Colonel suddenly.
Dinah, on the point of beating a swift retreat, stood still with obvious reluctance.
"Come here!" he repeated.
She went to him hesitatingly.
He reached up a hand and grasped her by the arm. "Were you eavesdropping just now?" he demanded.
Dinah started as if stung. "I—I—of course I wasn't!" she declared, with vehemence. "How can you suggest such a thing?"
"Quite sure?" said the Colonel, still holding her.