I assumed, from what was told me, and from my knowledge of the strength of Damaris' constitution, that a night's rest would fully restore her to her usual robust state of health, and so deferred my enquiry.

The servants were excited and upset, so I felt their account might be misleading--all they said was so confused, so far from explicit.

My position was most difficult, Sir Charles," she assured him and incidentally, also, assured herself.

"I encountered most trying opposition, which made me feel it would be wiser to wait until this morning.

By then, I hoped, the maids would have had time to recollect themselves and recollect what is becoming towards their superiors in the way of obedience and respect." Charles Verity threw back his head with a movement of impatience, and looked down at her from under his eyelids--in effect weary and a little insolent.
"We seem to be at cross purposes, Miss Bilson," he said.