A personal collision she saw to be almost inevitable in this event.

Mortifying publicity, if not the shedding of blood, would ensue.
So, for the present at least, she resolved to keep her own secret, and evaded the close queries of her husband, who was considerably disturbed by the alleged conduct of the driver.
One good result followed this rather startling experience.

Irene said no more about attending the conversaziones of Mrs.Talbot.

She did not care to meet Major Willard again, and as he was a regular visitor at Mrs.Talbot's, she couldn't go there without encountering him.

Her absence on the next social evening was remarked by her new friend, who called on her the next day.
"I didn't see you last night," said the agreeable Mrs.Talbot.
"No, I remained at home," replied Mrs.Emerson, the smile with which she had received her friend fading partly away.
"Not indisposed, I hope ?" "No." "But your husband was! Talk it right out, my pretty one!" said Mrs.
Talbot, in a gay, bantering tone.