"Then why did you invite us for that evening?" cried Mrs. Ormonde.
"I could have gone afterwards. Lady Barrington's gatherings are always late."
"You really know every one."
"Oh, not every one, Mrs. Ormonde."
"Then our 'play' is not to come off unless Katherine is to be of the party"—rather pettishly.
"If you like I will take you on Thursday, and Miss Liddell (if she will allow me) on Friday."
"What nonsense! We will all go together on Friday. Katie, do you think this friend of yours would invite me? I don't care to mope here when you are out enjoying yourself."
"I am sure she would be very pleased to see you. I will write and ask her for an invitation as soon as I go home." Katherine rose as she spoke.
"Do, like a good girl; and I will go and interview this dressmaker of yours. Till to-morrow, then."
The little woman stood on tiptoe to kiss her tall sister-in-law, who left the room, followed by De Burgh.