“Bribe her, promise her a rise in wages, but for God’s sake see that she cuts the sandwiches. We don’t want to be made fools of before our guests.”
“Very well, dear,” said Mrs. Heywood. She hesitated for a moment at the door, and before going out said: “But Mollie can be very violent at times.”
For a little while there was silence between the husband and wife. Then Herbert spoke rather sternly.
“Clare, are you or are you not going to get dressed?”
“I shall get dressed in good time,” said Clare quietly, “when I think fit. Surely you don’t want to dictate to me about that?”
“Surely,” said Herbert, “you can see how awkward it will be if any of our people arrive and find you unprepared for them?”
Clare gave a long, weary sigh.
“Oh, I am prepared for them. I have been trying to prepare myself all day for the ordeal of, them.”
“The ordeal? What the dickens do you mean?”
“I am prepared for Mrs. Atkinson Brown, who, when she takes off her hat in the bedroom, will ask me whether I am suited and whether I am expecting.”