, isn't it? I'm really afraid. He'll think it so unkind
of me. I told him we should be alone, and I shan't be able to explain. Isn't it
tiresome?«
    »It is, really! But of course Mr. Eldon will understand. To think that it
should happen just this day!«
    An idea flashed across Miss Tew's mind.
    »Couldn't you be at the door when he comes, and just - just say, you know,
that you're sorry, that you knew nothing about Mr. Mutimer coming?«
    »I've thought of something else,« returned Adela, lowering her voice, as if
to impart a project of doubtful propriety. »Suppose I walk towards the Manor and
- and meet him on the way, before he gets very far? Then I could save him the
annoyance, couldn't I, dear?«
    Letty widened her eyes. The idea was splendid, but -
    »You don't think, dear, that it might be a little - that you might find it
-?«
    Adela reddened.
    »It is only a piece of kindness. Mr. Eldon will understand, I'm sure. He
asked me so particularly if we should be alone. I really feel it a duty. Don't
you think I may go? I must decide at once.«
    Letty hesitated.
    »If you really advise me not to -« pursued Adela. »But I'm sure I shall be
glad when it's done.«
    »Then go, dear. Yes, I would go if I were you.«
    Adela now faltered.
    »You really would go, in my place?«
    »Yes, yes, I'm sure I should. You see, it isn't as if it was Mr. Mutimer you
were going to meet.«
    »Oh, no, no! That would be impossible.«
    »He will be very grateful,« murmured Letty, without looking up.
    »If I go, it must be at once.«
    »Your mother doesn't know he was coming?«
    »No. I don't know why I haven't told her, really. I suppose we were talking
so much of other things last night. And then I only got home just as Alfred did,
and he said at once that he had invited Mr. Mutimer. Yes, I will go. Perhaps
I'll come and see you again
