“Of course. Curiosity is woman’s nature.”
“And have you discovered nothing of her birth, or who she is?”
“Nothing whatever. A month ago I even went so far as to ask Lady Meldrum.”
“And what was her answer?” he inquired eagerly. “She said that her parentage was a matter that concerned only Muriel herself. Indeed, she seemed quite huffy that I should have dared to broach the subject. But you know how sore that kind of person is in regard to certain points.”
“Then Lady Meldrum gave no reason why Muriel was her husband’s ward?”
“No. Her reply was a polite negative to all inquiries.”
He was silent for a few minutes, leaning against the table and facing her.
“How did you first become acquainted with this estimable pair, Claudia? Tell me, for they interest me.”
“You mean that Muriel interests you,” she laughed mischievously.
“No, I mean that the whole affair appears to me full of mystery.”