"I never saw him before."
"You know who he is?"
"Ought I?--I am so sorry!"
"He is perhaps the greatest criminal advocate we have. And a very distinguished politician too.--Whenever our party comes in, he will be in the Cabinet.--You must make him talk this evening."
"I?" said Diana, laughing and blushing.
"You can!" smiled Mr. Ferrier. "Witness how you have been making me chatter! But I think I read you right? You do not mind if one chatters?--if one gives you information?"
"Mind!--How could I be anything but grateful? It puzzles me so--this--" she hesitated.
"This English life?--especially the political life? Well!--let me be your guide. I have been in it for a long while."
Diana thanked him, and rose.
"You want your room?" he asked her, kindly.--"Mrs. Fotheringham, I think, is in the drawing-room. Let me take you to her. But, first, look at two or three of these pictures as you go."