Towton tried to stem the torrent of this speech, but without any result. Still talking of the way in which she had been treated, Lady Corsoon babbled her way out of the gate and disappeared. The Colonel rode up to the door, and, alighting from his horse, bound the bridle to a ring in the wall. As he stepped inside, Vernon appeared in attendance on Lucy. They had stayed behind to comfort Ida, who was weeping over the harsh treatment she had received from her presumed aunt.
"What on earth is the matter?" asked Towton, putting the same question to the couple as he had put to Lady Corsoon. "Miss Lucy, I have met your mother rushing home in a high state of anger."
"Miss Hest and mother have fallen out," said Lucy, hesitating how much to say, for she knew how Towton loved Ida.
"And Lady Corsoon has learned that Ida is not her niece," put in Vernon. "Go in and comfort her, Colonel. I shall go after Lady Corsoon with Lucy."
"That is the best thing to be done," cried Frances, overbearing, and putting her head out of the window. "Colonel Towton, I desire a private conversation."
"Do you wish me to remain?" Vernon asked his friend in a low voice.
"No, no. I must see Miss Hest alone. I understand what she wants. Go with Miss Lucy. She has already reached the gate."
"But if you want me----"
"I don't. When I return you shall know everything."
"What do you mean?" demanded Vernon anxiously.