"I think it is monstrous strange that Marius could not stay," remarked the Countess Agatha, gathering round her the swansdown and gold wrap. "There is room enough here, and I vow it is more comfortable than forlorn chambers in Westminster." "He hath been considering this move for some time," answered Miss Chressham quietly. "He hath, I think, an idea of independence. It is a pity he will not go abroad again." "To leave us so suddenly!" continued the Countess heedlessly. "But last night I thought he seemed to me strange when he took you to the masque." "Perhaps, after all, it is better for him," said Susannah gently; and moved so that the candle-light did not fall over her face. "I thought Rose might have come to-day," commented my lady, with the air of a grievance, "but I swear he has not been over-attentive of late." Miss Chressham sighed. She could no more have confided in her aunt than in a child. My lord's troubles were not to be helped by his mother; yet one matter his cousin brought herself to mention, since it must be faced sooner or later. "Rose is too extravagant. I think it begins to weigh with him." The Countess Agatha was drawing on her fine silk gloves. "Well, my dear," she smiled sweetly, "what did he marry that woman for? Not to stint himself." "Stint himself!" Miss Chressham smiled too, but sadly. "His entertainments cost thousands, and his losses at cards--I do not care to think of them. No fortune could stand it, and Mr. Hilton, I hear, has lost money in Holland." "And what of Selina Boyle?" asked the Countess Agatha, with her trick of changing the subject at random, as if she never listened to what was said to her. "And that odious stuff in the _Gazette_? I hope you told her that it was too foolish to be noticed, and that I laughed at it; but, of course, I have no doubt it is true, nor that that impossible Lavinia wrote it." "I suppose it can be lived down," answered Susannah. "But Sir Francis and Mr. Boyle are furious." "Do you think 'twill come to a duel with Rose?" asked the Countess vaguely. "No--oh, no." Miss Chressham was positive. "But 'tis infatuation for her?" "Yes." "And she?" The Countess Agatha's soft eyes were sympathetic. Miss Chressham gave a painful little laugh. "I am afraid that she--is in love." "And that wretched creature comes between them!" sighed the elder lady. "It is too provoking Selina could not have had the money. She is quite charming, and I always liked her. But are you sure of Rose?" she asked suddenly. "There have been so many!" Miss Chressham coloured. "What are we talking of? It is all very foolish, and I vow you will be late, Aunt Agatha." The Countess glanced at the clock. "You are certain you will not accompany me, Susannah?" "Indeed, I am too tired. And now my lord is waiting." "Marius may come this evening. There are many of his things here. Do you see him, then say I blame him for this desertion."