“I did not hear,” said her ladyship haughtily. “I know nothing of such a person, and I will not have my name sullied by mention in connection with his.”
“But you’ll go and see Gertrude?”
“No,” exclaimed her ladyship. “It was Gertrude’s duty to come to me if she were in trouble. If she prefers her uncle’s help, let her enjoy it. I have no more to say, except that I shall not go; and, Humphrey, I forbid you to go there—for the present.”
“And me, too,” said Dick quietly.
“You have long ceased to obey me,” said her ladyship austerely, “and must take your own course. I will not, however, be dragged into this dreadful scandal.”
“Humph!” said Dick. “Then you let it all out, father, after you’d gone to bed?”
“Yes, my son, yes. Your mamma was very anxious, and I told her all.”
“As you like. I’m off now to secure counsel. We’ll have him out before night.”
Lady Millet sighed and wiped her eyes, but no one paid any heed to her, so she consoled her injured feelings with a good breakfast.