They told me to say they didn't wish to disturb you at luncheon, and might they have a cup of coffee ?" Diana excused herself, and hurried out.

Mr.Birch explained at length to Mrs.Colwood and Fanny that Overton Park belonged to the Judge, Sir William Felton; that Sir James Chide was often there; and no doubt Miss Drake had been invited for the ball of the night before; awfully smart affair!--the coming-out ball of the youngest daughter.
"Who is Miss Drake ?" asked Fanny, thinking enviously of the ball, to which she had not been invited.

Mr.Birch turned to her with confidential jocosity.
"Lady Lucy Marsham's cousin; and it is generally supposed that she might by now have been something else but for--" He nodded toward the chair at the head of the table which Diana had left vacant.
"Whatever do you mean ?" said Fanny.

The Marshams to her were, so far, mere shadows.

They represented rich people on the horizon whom Diana selfishly wished to keep to herself.
"I'm telling tales, I declare I am!" said Mr.Birch.