"And what about Ascot, Mrs. Verulam? Is it all settled? The Duke is enchanted at the idea of a week in the Bun Emperor's palace; for Ribton Marches is forbidden ground to everybody. Mr. Lite never has visitors, except to lunch to sign an advertisement. He thinks the sanctity of the home should not be intruded upon. Have you really got the house?"
"Mr. Rodney says 'really,'" Mrs. Verulam said, looking at him.
Mr. Rodney bowed towards his boots.
"Dear me! How delightful! A large party?"
"Very small."
Mrs. Verulam mentioned its items. Her Grace, although her magnificent jaw fell slightly at the name of Mr. Ingerstall, was pleased to say that it was cosy.
"And Mr. Van Adam will keep us all going," she added, flinging in Chloe's direction a weighty smile of approbation.
Mr. Rodney squirmed.
"But who is this Mr. Bush, dear Mrs. Verulam?" she continued. "Does one know his name?"
"He is a country friend; he lives in retirement in Bungay Marshes."