"But so dull," objected Lady Jim. "Why is it good women are always dull and dowdy?"
"They are getting ready for the next world," mumbled Lady Canvey, solemnly.
"Their outfit can't cost much, then," declared Leah, flippantly; "but aren't we going to talk business? Think of that poor French, sitting in the motor-car all this time."
"You're sorry for him, I'm sure," said the old woman, ironically.
"Horribly," replied Lady Jim, calmly; "but at least the poor creature is cooler than I am. This room is stifling."
"Don't call your fellow-sinner a creature, Leah."
"Ah! Even had I not seen Lionel I could guess he had been with you, godmother. He loves the dirty and disreputable."
"And you love the rich and disreputable."
"That obvious speech is hardly worthy of your reputation," was Lady Jim's reply. Then she crossed her legs, rested her muff on her knee, and protested, "I can't wait here much longer----"
"On account of French?"