"That is, after all, largely a matter of opinion."
Leland sat still a moment watching the two figures on the lawn with a curious blending of compassion and disgust. Then he rose and looked down on his companion.
"Madam," he said, "I wonder if I might ask you why you thought fit to tell me this?"
"One should never ask for a woman's reasons, and I think I have informed you already that my tongue is dipped in wormwood."
Leland made a little impatient gesture. "Is it Aylmer's money alone that counts with them, or his station, if he has any?"
"One would certainly imagine that it was his means."
Leland left her presently. As she watched him stride along the terrace, her shrewd, faded face grew gentle.
"If I have read that man aright, there may be results," she said. "In that case, I almost fancy Carrie will have much to thank me for."
Then she rose and, crossing the quadrangle, sought the card-room. It was an hour later when she came upon Carrie Denham sitting alone.
"I have been talking to Mr. Leland, and am rather pleased with him," she said to the girl. "He is a curious compound of simplicity and forcefulness. They must live like anchorites out there."