Peggy laughed mischievously. "I suppose, Pauline, you think that's one to you," she said.
"Tais-toi!" said the old woman, both voice and manner growing more serious every moment.
"Well, go on," Peggy replied petulantly.
Pauline's voice became as impressive as she knew how to make it.
"I am sure Lady Attwill knew that Mr. Collingwood did not want Lord Ellerdine in the way. At Boulogne it was just the same. Lady Attwill's things were examined quickly, and then off she went with Lord Ellerdine in the Swiss express, and we didn't see them again. She went out of sight. Now, tell me, was not that strange?"
"Heavens! how hot it is!" Peggy said. "Shall I have a cigarette? Yes, I really think I will. Fetch me my cigarette-case, Pauline. It is on the dressing-table in my bedroom."
In a moment the Breton woman returned with a dainty little case of gold with a monogram of sapphires in one corner. Peggy took a cigarette, lit it, and inhaled a breath of the fragrant smoke with great satisfaction. Then she began her noiseless walk up and down the room again.
"Certainly," she said suddenly, "Lady Attwill is not a person to go out of sight for nothing."
Pauline sneered. "Oh, miladi is a convenience," she said. "M. Collingwood has only to raise his little finger and she will do anything."
"You mean that she is fond of him?"