The Little Bill Lucy, during those last fifteen minutes of her sojourn in the Framley Court drawing-room, somewhat modified the very strong opinion she had before formed as to her unfitness for such society.

It was very pleasant sitting there in that easy chair, while Lord Lufton stood at the back of it saying nice, soft, good-natured words to her.

She was sure that in a little time she could feel a true friendship for him, and that she could do so without any risk of falling in love with him.

But then she had a glimmering of an idea that such a friendship would be open to all manner of remarks, and would hardly be compatible with the world's ordinary ways.

At any rate it would be pleasant to be at Framley Court, if he would come and occasionally notice her.