Lady Lufton had especially invited her guest into
this, her most private sanctum, to which as a rule none had
admittance but her daughter, and sometimes Fanny Robarts. But to what
sanctum might not such a daughter-in-law as Griselda have admittance?
"Oh, yes--very," said Griselda.
"It seemed to me that you bestowed most of your smiles upon Ludovic."
And Lady Lufton put on a look of good pleasure that such should have
been the case.
"Oh! I don't know," said Griselda; "I did dance with him two or three
times."
"Not once too often to please me, my dear. I like to see Ludovic
dancing with my friends."
"I am sure I am very much obliged to you, Lady Lufton."
"Not at all, my dear. I don't know where he could get so nice a
partner." And then she paused a moment, not feeling how far she might
go. In the meantime Griselda sat still, staring at the hot coals.
"Indeed, I know that he admires you very much," continued Lady
Lufton.--"Oh! no, I am sure he doesn't," said Griselda; and then
there was another pause.
"I can only say this," said Lady Lufton, "that if he does do so--and
I believe he does--it would give me very great pleasure. For you
know, my dear, that I am very fond of you myself."
"Oh! thank you," said Griselda, and stared at the coals more
perseveringly than before.
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