Agatha repeated the words. Lady Selina went on in a tone significantly incisive:

“This letter must be typed, copied, and posted without fail to-night.”

“Certainly, my lady.”

Lady Selina sat very upright, but quite unaware that she was frowning. Perhaps Agatha divined that she was oppressed by the weight of her responsibilities.

“John Gridley:—After what happened this afternoon my mind is made up—the Extons must go——”

Agatha dropped her notebook. Lady Selina started, much discomposed. Agatha said deprecatingly:

“I beg pardon, my lady.”

Lady Selina drew a swift inference.

“I had forgotten. The Extons are friends of yours, eh?”

“Yes, my lady.”