"It was at Matlock, afterward. Why?"
"Because, my dear—you must forgive me, but I could not help hearing what that young lady said. She was so very—so very unrestrained."
"Very ill-bred, I should say."
"Well, I should not have said that. You couldn't mistake the Lucys for anything but gentlepeople. Evidently I was meant to hear. I've no doubt she thinks us all very unkind."
"Unkind? Why?"
"Because we have—have not exactly taken to Mrs. Tailleur; if you'll forgive my saying so."
Miss Keating's smile forgave her. "People do not always take to her. She is more a favourite, I think, with men." She gave the ball into the old lady's hands.
The old lady coughed slightly. "Thank you, my dear. I dare say you have thought it strange. We are such a friendly little community here; and if Mrs. Tailleur had been at all possible——"
"I believe," said Miss Keating, "she is very well connected. Lord Matcham is a most intimate friend of hers."
"That doesn't speak very well for Lord Matcham, I'm afraid."