Quiet and commonplace as the Hanoverian was, she had her ambition, and that was to grasp the household sceptre which Lady Maulevrier must needs in some wise resign, now that she was a prisoner to her rooms.

But so far Fraeulein had met with but small success in this endeavour.

Her ladyship's authority still ruled the house.

Her ladyship's keen intellect took cognisance even of trifles: and it was only in the most insignificant details that Fraeulein felt herself a power.
'Well, your ladyship, what's the row ?' said Maulevrier marching into his grandmother's room with a free and easy air.

He was prepared for a skirmish, and he meant to take the bull by the horns.
'I suppose you know what has happened to-day ?' said her ladyship.
'Molly and Hammond's expedition, yes, of course.