"Yes, bridge," she said quickly. "I feel I must have excitement to-night."
He looked at her immovably.
"As you wish," he said calmly. "I shall ask Rose Bathurst and Mansfeldt to play."
He turned away, and at the same moment Lady Diana came forward from a little group that included her husband and Gore. Coming close to Clodagh, she laid her hand kindly on her arm.
"Well, Mrs. Milbanke," she said pleasantly, "how shall we amuse you this evening?"
Clodagh turned swiftly. Her nerves felt so tense and strained that even her hostess's quiet voice set them tingling.
"Oh, I have chosen my amusement," she said. "I want a game of bridge, and Lord Deerehurst has gone to make up a four."
Lady Diana's expression changed, betraying a leaven of disappointment.
"Bridge?" she repeated. "Do you think you are quite wise? Remember your headache!"
Clodagh gave a short, excited laugh.