"But surely—surely the hotel people would know?"
"Hotel people never know anything that isn't their interest to know. If there were any complaint, or if any of the guests were to leave on account of her, Mrs. Tailleur would have to go."
"And has there been any complaint?"
"I believe Mr. Soutar—the clergyman—has spoken to the manager."
"And the manager?"
"Well, you see, Mr. Soutar is always complaining. He complained about the food, and about his bedroom. He has the cheapest bedroom in the hotel."
Miss Keating was thinking hard. Her idea was that Kitty Tailleur should go, and that she should remain.
"Don't you think if Colonel Hankin spoke to the manager——"
"He wouldn't. He's much too kind. Besides, the manager can't do anything as long as she behaves herself. And now that the Lucys have taken her up——. And then, there's you. Your being with her is her great protection. As she very well knew when she engaged you."