He did not appear to have heard, but in reality the remark had made a distinct impression on him.

It signalised a new departure--the attack at a fresh quarter.
Millicent had tried most methods--and she possessed many--hitherto in vain.

She had attempted to coax him with a filial playfulness of demeanour, to dazzle him by a brilliancy which had that effect upon the majority of men in her train, to win him by respectful affection; but the result had been failure.

She was now bringing her last reserve up to the front; and there are few things more dangerous, even to an old campaigner, than a confession of fear from the lips of a pretty girl.
Sir John Meredith gave himself a little jerk--a throw back of the shoulders which was habitual--which might have been a tribute either to Millicent behind, or to Lady Cantourne in front.
The pleasantest part of existence in a large country house full of visitors is the facility with which one may avoid those among the guests for whom one has no sympathy.

Millicent managed very well to avoid Sir John Meredith.