"I shall reserve my criticism of these very astonishing performances, Mabel; but permit me to say that you have much to learn concerning the manners and customs of English society." "Then," said Mrs. Scarsdale, ignoring this last remark, "we came to Salisbury." "And telegraphed to Basingstoke for information." "Exactly. But they could tell us nothing; so when I saw your carriage----" "How did you know it was mine?" "I looked out your coat of arms in 'Burke.'" Her ladyship smiled grimly. Perhaps something might be made of this fair barbarian--in time, a great deal of time; but still this knowledge of the peerage sounded hopeful, and it was with a little less severity in her voice that she demanded: "And what do you mean to do now?" "Go back to Basingstoke this morning." "Alone?" "No, with Mr. Allingford." "Do you expect to find your husband there?" "I should think he would naturally return as soon as possible to where he lost me." "I don't know," said her ladyship. "Was Mrs. Allingford pretty?" "If you are going to adopt that tack, Lady Melton, the sooner we part the better," said her visitor angrily. "We do not 'adopt tacks' in England," returned her ladyship calmly; "and as I consider myself responsible for your actions while you are under my roof, I shall not allow you to go to Basingstoke, or anywhere else, with a person who, whatever his official position, is totally unknown to me." "You don't mean to keep me here against my will!" "I mean to send you to your relations, wherever they are, under the charge of my butler--a most respectable married man--provided the journey can be accomplished between now and nightfall." "Well, it can't," replied her grand-niece triumphantly. "Aunt Eliza left for Paris this morning, and all my other relations are in Chicago." Lady Melton was, however, a woman of decision, and not to be easily baffled. "Then I will send you to your mother-in-law, Lady Scarsdale; I suppose she has returned to 'The Towers'?" "I believe so. But I do not intend to go there without my husband; it would be ignominious." "Perhaps you can suggest a better plan," said her ladyship coldly. "Well, if you refuse to let me go to Basingstoke----" began the bride. "I do. Proceed." "Then Mr. Allingford might go for me, and tell St. Hubart where I am. I know he is waiting for me there, but he would never think of my being here----Excuse me, I mean----" she stammered, blushing, for she saw she had made a slip. "We will not discuss your meaning," said her hostess, "but your plan seems feasible and proper. You may receive the consular person in my private sitting-room and arrange matters at once." Her niece turned to go, but she stopped her, saying: "One word more. I do not think it necessary for your friend Mr. Allingford to return with my nephew. Pray make this clear to him."