Her back was turned to the old sisters in the chimney corner.
"Lady Mary," she said, "oh, never mind if I am indiscreet; you know I am always that." A little sob escaped her.

"But I _must_ ask you this one thing--you--you didn't really think _that_ of me, did you ?" "Think what, dear child ?" said Lady Mary, bewildered.
Sarah looked round at the two old ladies.
The head of Miss Crewys was inclined towards the crochet she held in her lap.

She slumbered peacefully.
Lady Belstone was absently gazing into the heart of the great fire.
The heat did not appear to cause her inconvenience.

She was nodding.
"They will hear nothing," said Lady Mary, softly.

"Tell me, Sarah, what you mean.