"No; I don't think she has altered much; she has merely developed."
As he spoke, the door was flung open, and Miss Brabourne, in her riding-habit, entered.
"Lady Mabel, my horse is late again——" the frown died away from the pretty forehead, the great blue eyes grew wide with surprise.
"God-father!"
"Well, god-daughter! Are you surprised? Not more than I am. My little girl is a woman of fashion now!"
"Oh, how can you? Poor little me," said the girl, with an affected little laugh which jarred upon his nerves. "I am so pleased to see you! Are you come to stay here?"
"Of course," put in Claud, hurriedly.
"Thanks, Elsie, I shall perhaps be in town for a few days, but I prefer my own old room at the Langham."
"My sister won't hear of such a thing," urged Claud.
"Lady Mabel is more than kind, but I am an old bachelor, and I like my liberty. And so, Elsie, you are very well and blooming?"