If she had injured her sister-in-law at the same time, and destroyed all her hopes in life, what did it matter so long as she herself escaped? It was a principle with Pauline never to trouble herself about other people’s affairs, and to shift her own burden off her own shoulders to somebody else’s whenever she could. “If that is the case, I see no reason why I should disturb myself in any way. The affair is sure to blow over comfortably if we keep quiet; and, of course, you won’t say anything, for Reggie’s sake.” The tranquil egotism of this speech roused Lady Gwendolyn at last, and she turned upon her angrily. “You are right--it is Reggie, and Reggie only, I consider in this matter. You have spoiled his life, poor fellow! but you shall not drag his honor through the mire if I can help it.” “You rave like a tragedy queen,” observed Lady Teignmouth insolently. “Dragging your husband’s honor through the mire is only done now on the stage.” “I find, to my sorrow, that it is still possible in real life,” replied Lady Gwendolyn, with a strong effort at self-control. “Because you are romantic, my dear. When once you get married you will look at things in a more matter-of-fact light. Reggie and I are tied to each other, but neither of us has a mind to make our chains too heavy. He goes his way, and I go mine. I do not call him to account for anything he may have done during our separation, and claim a like indulgence from him. I should not in the least object to his having a little flirtation, if it amused him; and I don’t really believe that he wishes to deprive me of a similar distraction.” “And you call that a flirtation?” exclaimed Lady Gwendolyn indignantly. “Certainly. The moment I found Mr. Belmont was taking me too much _au sérieux_, I told him I would have nothing more to say to him. Even if he had not died so suddenly, I should never have spoken to him again.” “I see; he was becoming a nuisance, and you decided to get rid of him by fair means or foul.” “What on earth do you mean? Of course, if I declined his further acquaintance, he had no alternative but to accept his dismissal.” “It is no use talking to me in this way. I know all,” answered Lady Gwendolyn gloomily. “Mr. Belmont confessed the truth with almost his last breath.” “What truth? I wish you would not be so enigmatical, Gwen. When I can’t understand people directly they always bore me.” “Very well, since you will have it, he said he had been poisoned.” “Poisoned!” echoed Lady Teignmouth, in a tone of incredulity that was unmistakably genuine. “I don’t believe it! He was with me for nearly an hour, and though he threatened all sorts of foolish things--as men do under those circumstances--I am sure he never dreamed of carrying them out.” “Pauline!” cried her sister-in-law, “will you swear that you had no hand in Mr. Belmont’s death?”