It had been Lord Court’s intention to travel with his wife straight down to Court Manor, after resting a day or two in London; but the death of his aunt, Lady Merivale, immediately on their arrival, necessitated his presence in town, as her affairs were left in his hands. Margery at first felt disappointed at the delay, but, after a week had passed she grew content. They had a suite of rooms at the Bristol, and, to Pauline’s delight, were in the very heart of London. Horses and carriages were brought up for the Countess of Court’s use during her brief stay, and the slender, black-robed girl, with sweet, pathetic face, and crown of red-gold hair, provoked universal admiration. The earl had not many near relatives; but such of his connections as were in town paid an early visit to Lady Court, and found their anticipations of dislike turn to wonder at the gracious dignity and sweetness of Margery’s presence. She soon learned that her strange, romantic marriage was the one topic of the moment in society, that every one was eager to see the unknown girl who had won the heart of Nugent, Earl of Court, so eligible, yet so disappointing a _parti_. It gave Margery no pleasure to receive and return the visits of the stately ladies who claimed to be her husband’s friends; still, she forced herself to do it, as the beginning of her path of duty. Every day, as she drove out, she dreaded to see those two faces whose images she could not banish from her memory; and she would shrink back in the corner of the luxurious carriage as she passed a riding party, forgetful for the minute that her own features were hidden beneath the thick, black veil, which, despite all Pauline’s protests, she would wear, forgetful, too, of the fact that, were she to meet Vane Charteris and Stuart, they would never associate Margery Daw with the Countess of Court. For no mention of her name before her marriage had crept out. The world knew that the earl had taken his sister’s companion for his wife, and there its information ended. Miss Lawson and Dr. Fothergill and his wife were alone in the secret, and with them it was safe. One afternoon, at the beginning of the second week of their stay in town, a trial came to Margery’s pride. Lord Court was claimed by the lawyers, and, after a morning spent among her books, Margery prepared for a drive and some visits. Pauline dressed the slender, graceful figure in the black garments and fastened the sable mantle while she uttered exclamations of delight at her mistress’ appearance. She made a slight protest as the veil was produced, but Margery was firm, and the delicate face, with its great blue eyes, was completely hidden beneath the thick folds. The first visit was to an old marchioness who had fallen a victim to Lady Court’s charm and sweetness, and Margery made great progress toward friendship. Several ladies were present, and from one and all she received kind congratulations.