“No; that would defeat our object,” said Mildred. “We wish to take her by surprise.”
Rose had nothing more to say, so the carriage was ordered at once.
All three got into it, and were driven to the esplanade near Lambeth Bridge, where they alighted, and walked towards Spencer's Rents. Emmeline would not allow the footman to accompany them.
Great was Mrs. Hartley's confusion at this unexpected visit.
She was busy in the kitchen at the time, and when Rose rushed in to tell her Miss Barfleur and Miss Calverley were at the house, she uttered a cry of astonishment, and blamed her daughter for not letting her know beforehand.
“Don't scold her, Mrs. Hartley,” cried Emmeline, who heard all that was passing. “We wouldn't allow her to prepare you for our visit. We wanted to see you just as you are.”
“Dear me! it's very kind of you, miss!” cried the good dame, not venturing to show herself. “Be pleased to step into the parlour, and I'll come to you as soon as I've put myself a little to rights. Rose will show you the way.”
Smiling as they went into the little room, which they thought very tidy and well furnished, the young ladies sat down, and sent Rose to her mother, who presently came in, and made many apologies for keeping them waiting.
Both were very much pleased by her appearance, and after she had been presented to each of them in turn, she said to Mildred:
“And so you're Mr. Chetwynd's sister, miss? Well, I don't see any great resemblance.”