I have told her she must decline." "Quite right," said the Colonel.

"What did she say ?" Lady Grace uttered a little laugh.

"Oh, she was very ridiculous and high-flown, as you may imagine.

But, as I told her, I am directly responsible to her mother for any friendships she may make out here, and I am not disposed to take any risks.

We all know what Mrs.Bathurst can be like if she considers herself an injured party." "A perfect she-dragon!" agreed the Colonel.