Hellayne's wide eyes were silent questioners.
"Then listen well and ponder. You were in the power of the Lord Basil. And that which he desires he usually obtains."
Hellayne covered her face with her hands.
"The Lord Basil!"
"You know him, Lady Hellayne?"
"Slightly. He was wont to call upon the man I once called my husband."
"The man you deserted for another."
Hellayne's eyes glittered like steel.
"That is a matter which concerns only myself, Lady Theodora," she said coldly. "You saved my honor—perchance my life. For this I thank you. I shall depart at once."
She walked to the door, opened it and recoiled.