"How odd! That I should never have prophesied. And Mr. Birch? I needn't have him to lunch again, need I?"
"Miss Merton invited him to tea--on Saturday."
Diana reddened.
"Must I--!" she said, impetuously; then stopped herself, and opened the door.
Outside, Fanny Merton was just mounting the stairs, a candle in her hand. She stopped in astonishment at the sight of Diana.
"Diana! where have you been all this time?"
"Only talking to Muriel. We heard you playing; so we thought you weren't dull," said Diana, rather penitently.
"I was only playing till you came in," was the sharp reply. "When did Mr. Marsham go?"
Diana by this time was crossing the landing to the door of her room, with Fanny behind her.
"Oh, quite an hour ago. Hadn't we better dress? Dinner will be ready directly."