An expression of satisfaction had chased away her frown. She was pleased that the servants at least should throw themselves so keenly into a family affair, even though the fact of their doing so sharpened her annoyance at her children's aloof unresponsiveness. The telephone rang shrilly. Probably Dora, she thought, and took off the receiver reluctantly, but it was Helen's voice that said: "Hullo, Mrs. Greene, is that you? Margaret told me you'd rung up while I was working. I'm sorry she didn't interrupt me; she ought to have known I'd speak to you to-day." Mrs. Rodney was mollified by the flattering implication in Helen's words but she hoped for a further confirmation when she answered provocatively: "Good morning, my dear. It was a little annoying of course, but still you mustn't make an exception of me." Helen's reply was casual but final. "I couldn't ordinarily. But to-day is rather special, isn't it." Piqued as she was at not being given preferential treatment, Mrs. Rodney was so delighted with Helen for realising the importance of the occasion, that she decided to ignore the other point in the meantime. It could always be brought up later. "I'm so glad you think so, dear," she said warmly. "It certainly is a special occasion from my point of view. Tell me, what are you thinking of wearing?" "My silver and white brocade. It's much the grandest frock I've got, so what could be more suitable?" Mrs. Rodney wondered momentarily if there was a faint note of mockery in Helen's tones, but decided that it must be due to the telephone. "That's delightful. You always look so nice in it. And Helen dear, don't be late at all, will you. It worries Grannie if dinner is a minute later than quarter to eight." "No, we won't be late I promise. I'll let Geoffrey drive the car." "Do, Helen, I'm sure it's wiser." "Was there anything else you wanted, Mrs. Greene?" "No, nothing. I only thought I'd remind you about the hour." "Well, good-bye Mrs. Greene, and good luck with your stage managing. I hope the production will be good." "Helen, hullo Helen, don't go yet. Tell me what you mean, dear?" Again a faint doubt of Helen's good faith crossed Mrs. Rodney's mind, but she was reassured by Helen's calm explanation. "I mean about to-night. You'll have to stage manage the whole affair, and I'm sure it will go beautifully. I propose to enjoy myself enormously as one of the humbler members of the caste." "Oh I see," Mrs. Rodney resolutely stilled her doubts, and went on playfully: "Of course a good hostess always has to stage manage a little, and even more in a family party. Good-bye, dear child, till this evening, and don't be late."