Mavis stared at Mrs Hamilton in wide-eyed amazement. The rich woman appeared to take no notice of the girl's surprise, and said:
"Sit by the fire with me a moment. It will soon be time for you to dress."
"Dress! I've only what I've got on with me. My one poor evening dress would look absurd in this house."
"I told you I'd see to that," replied Mrs Hamilton. "I've had a young friend staying with me who was just about your build. She left one or two of her evening dresses behind her. If they don't quite fit, my maid will take them in."
"You are good to me," said Mavis.
"If you like it, I'll give you one."
"How can I ever thank you?"
"You can to-night."
"To-night?"
"Listen. I've two old friends coming to dinner. One is a Mr—Mr Ellis, but he won't interest you a bit."