"No, I do not play, but if you will let me stay and assist you entertain, I shall feel that my sin is forgiven."
Mrs. Lambert sighed relief. "O, if you will stay," she replied smiling once more at ease, "we will all be so glad to teach you."
"I thoroughly understand the game," answered the girl gravely, "I have always enjoyed it, but I have been persuaded to give it up—a matter of conscience entirely, and two weeks ago I promised to never play again."
Mrs. Lambert's face rippled with amusement.
As her maid took the guest's wrap, Mrs. Lambert linked her arm cordially into that of Miss Esterbrook.
"Come, we have just ten minutes to ourselves. I want you to sit by me, and confidentially tell me just how wicked I am—for I adore 'Bridge!'"
Edith felt the charm of the elder woman, and she smiled brightly as they seated themselves in the cozy window seat.
"I fear I could not persuade you," she said thoughtfully, "We all look at things from different standpoints, do we not?"
"Then from what standpoint could you prove my 'Bridge' playing wrong?" Mrs. Lambert asked, dropping her playful mood, and becoming momentarily interested.
The dark eyes seemed to deepen their color, and an intensely earnest expression pervaded her countenance.