"By the way," continued mother, "I had a note this morning from Mr. Randolph; he wants us to dine with him first at the Hotel Cecil."
"Mother!"
"Yes, darling; is there any objection?"
"Oh, I don't like it," I continued; "why should we put ourselves under an obligation to him?"
"I do not think, Westenra, you need be afraid; if I think it right to go you need have no scruples."
"Of course I understand that," I answered, "and if it were any one else I should not think twice about it. If the Duchess, for instance, asked us to dine with her, and if she took us afterwards to the theatre I should quite rejoice, but I am puzzled about Mr. Randolph."
"Prejudiced, you mean, dear; but never mind, you are young. As long as you have me with you, you need have no scruples. I have written a line to him to say that we will be pleased to dine with him. He is to meet us at the hotel, and is sending a carriage for us here. I own I shall be very glad once in a way to eat at a table where Mrs. Armstrong is not."
"I have always tried to keep Mrs. Armstrong out of your way, mother."
"Yes, darling; but she irritates me all the same. However, she is a good soul, and I must learn to put up with her. Now then, West, what will you wear to-night?"
"Something very quiet," I answered.