By the fire sat Thomas, fair-haired and stupid in looks, who read tit-bits from the Daily Mail for the delectation of Mrs.Pill and Geraldine.
"Gracious 'eavens, Susan," cried the cook, when Susan returned, after admitting the visitors, "whatever's come to you ?" "I've had a turn," said Susan faintly, sitting by the fire and rubbing her white cheeks.
At once Mrs.Pill was alive with curiosity.

She questioned the new parlor-maid closely, but was unable to extract information.

Susan simply said that she had a weak heart, and set down her wan appearance to the heat.

"An' on that accounts you sits by the fire," said Mrs.
Pill scathingly.

"You're one of the secret ones you are.