"I see what you mean. But we'll get an order through—before very long. Meanwhile, you must do some more of your clever dressing."
And it was just then—before Mr. Mears could promise to dress the empty shelves—that the house servant appeared, and told her mistress of the unexpected arrival of Mrs. Kenion.
It was not a Thursday; and Enid came only on Thursdays, and never before luncheon. Mrs. Marsden knew at once that something remarkable had occurred.
"Is Miss Jane with her?"
"Yes, ma'am. They're waiting for you upstairs in the drawing-room."
Mrs. Marsden hurried up to the first floor, and rushed through the door of communication.
"Enid, my dearest child."
"Oh, mother, mother! It's all over."
Enid was in a pitiable state of distress; the red circles round her eyes were absolutely disfiguring; she wrung her hands, and contorted her whole body.
"Enid dear—tell me. Don't keep me in suspense."