"There was no necessity," said Mrs. Armour quietly.
"Of discussing me? I suppose not. But by some chance—"
"It was just as well, perhaps, not to anticipate the pleasure of our meeting."
Lady Haldwell was surprised. She had not expected this cleverness. They talked casually for a little time, the visitor trying in vain to delicately give the conversation a personal turn. At last, a little foolishly, she grew bolder, with a needless selfishness.
"So old a friend of your husband as I am, I am hopeful you and I may be friends also."
Mrs. Armour saw the move.
"You are very kind," she said conventionally, and offered a cup of tea.
Lady Haldwell now ventured unwisely. She was nettled at the other's self-possession.
"But then, in a way, I have been your friend for a long time, Mrs.
Armour."
The point was veiled in a vague tone, but Mrs. Armour understood. Her reply was not wanting. "Any one who has been a friend to my husband has, naturally, claims upon me."