“It seems to me,” I observed, “that what is sauce--that, I should say, husband and wife ought to stand on an equal footing in these matters. Since he has--no doubt for good reasons--not mentioned to you--” “Alice Layton was a positive fright.” “She came last,” said I. “Just before you, you know. However, as I was saying--” “And that horrible Sylvia Fenton--” “Oh, he couldn’t have known you long then. As I was saying, I should, if I were you, treat him as he has treated you. In my case it seems to be too late.” “I’m sorry I told him that.” “Oh, pray don’t mind, it’s of no consequence. As to the others--” “I should never have thought it of Archie!” “One never knows,” said I, with an apologetic smile. “I don’t suppose he thinks it of you.” “I won’t tell him a single word. He may find out if he likes. Who was the last girl you mentioned?” “Is it any use trying to remember all their names?” I asked in a soothing tone. “No doubt he’s forgotten them by now--just as you’ve forgotten the others.” “And the Dowager told me that he had never had an attachment before.” “Oh, if the Dowager said that! Of course, the Dowager would know!” “Don’t be so silly, for goodness sake! Are you going?” “Certainly I am. It might annoy Archie to find me here when he wants to talk to you.” “Well, I want to talk to him.” “Of course you won’t repeat what I’ve--” “I shall find out for myself,” she said. “Goodbye. I hope I’ve removed all your troubles?” “O, yes, thank you. I know what to do now, Mr. Carter.” “Always send for me if you’re in any trouble. I have some exp--” “Goodbye, Mr. Carter.” “Goodbye, Lady Mickleham. And remember that Archie, like you--” “Yes, yes; I know. Must you go?” “I’m afraid I must. I’ve enjoyed our talk so--” “There’s Archie’s step.” I left the room. On the stairs I met Archie. I shook hands sympathetically. I was sorry for Archie. But in great causes the individual cannot be considered. I had done my duty to my sex. MY LAST CHANCE “Now mind,” said Mrs. Hilary Musgrave, impressively, “this is the last time I shall take any trouble about you. She’s a very nice girl, quite pretty, and she’ll have a lot of money. You can be very pleasant when you like--” “This unsolicited testimonial--” “Which isn’t often--and if you don’t do it this time I wash my hands of you. Why, how old are you?” “Hush, Mrs. Hilary.” “You must be nearly--” “It’s false--false--false!” “Come along,” said Mrs. Hilary, and she added over her shoulder, “she has a slight north-country accent.” “It might have been Scotch,” said I. “She plays the piano a good deal.” “It might have been the fiddle,” said I. “She’s very fond of Browning.” “It might have been Ibsen,” said I.