He could not understand it, and the more he pondered upon it the more puzzled he grew, for he felt that there must be something underneath it all which ought to be accounted for and thoroughly sifted.
Yet after Mrs. Dredmond’s reception of his betrothed, which to him appeared almost like a public insult, he was too proud and too deeply wounded to seek any explanation from Adrian, between whom and himself until now the firmest friendship had existed.
CHAPTER XXXIX
BURYING THE HATCHET
Lord and Lady Dunforth called again at the Langham the next morning, but found they had been forestalled by numerous other callers, whom Brownie was entertaining in the most charming manner.
She received his lordship with proud but respectful dignity, which, while it grieved him, yet it also excited his admiration that she should thus resent the injury he had done her.
One by one the other visitors departed, until at length they were left alone with the young couple.
After a few moments spent in a pleasant chat, Lady Dunforth whispered a few words in Brownie’s ear.
She smiled and nodded compliance, then, turning with inimitable tact to her husband, said:
“Adrian, Lady Dunforth is anxious to inspect the wedding wardrobe and gifts; will you attend her while I entertain his lordship? If you need any explanations Milly can make them.”
Adrian saw the point of all this, and rising he gave his arm to his grandmother, and conducted her from the room.