A woman out of a refuge would be quite capable of presenting herself here in my place." Spoken entirely at random, spoken without so much as a fragment of evidence to support them, those last words still had their effect.
They cast a reflection on Lady Janet's adopted daughter which was too outrageous to be borne.

Lady Janet rose instantly.

"Give me your arm, Horace," she said, turning to leave the room.

"I have heard enough." Horace respectfully offered his arm.

"Your ladyship is quite right," he answered.