laire's cheeks grew hotter still. A quick retort came to her lips.

"I wasn't going to discuss it! I only mentioned it for--for something
to say. I couldn't think how else to begin!"

The droop of Lady Jane's eyelids inferred that it was really quite
superfluous to begin at all. Claire waited a whole two minutes by the
clock, and then made another effort.

"I hear we are to have some music later on."

"Sorry to hear it," said Great-aunt Jane.

"Really! I was so glad. Aren't you fond of music, then?"

"I am very fond of music," said Aunt Jane, and there was a world of
insinuation in her voice. Without a definite word being spoken, the
hearer was informed that good music, real music, music worthy the name,
was a thing that no sane person would expect to hear at Mrs
Willoughby's "At Homes." She was really the most terrifying and
disconcerting of old ladies, and Claire heartily repented the impulse
which had brought her to her side. A pretty thing it would be if she
were left alone on this sofa for the rest of the evening!

But fortune was kind, and from across the room came a good angel who was
so exactly a reproduction of Mrs Willoughby herself, minus half her
age, that it must obviously be her daughter. Janet Willoughby was not a
pretty girl, but she looked gay, and bright, and beaming with good
humour, and at this moment with a spice of mischief into the bargain.
The manner in which she held out her hand to Claire was as friendly as
though the two girls had been friends for years.

"Miss Gifford? I was sure it must be you. Mother told me to look for
you. Aunt Jane, will you excuse my running away with Miss Gifford?
Several people are asking to be introduced. Will you come with me, Miss
Gifford? I want to take you into the music room."

Claire rose with a very leap of eagerness, and as soon as they had
gained a safe distance, Miss Willoughby turned to her with twinkling
eyes.

"I am afraid you were having a bad time! I caught sight of you across
the room and was so sorry. Who took you over there? Was it that
naughty Reginald?"

"He did, but I asked him. I thought she looked lonely. I thought
perhaps she would be pleased."

Janet Willoughby's smile showed a quick approval.

"That was kind! Thanks for the good intention, but I can't let you be
victimised any more. I want to talk to you myself, and half-a-dozen men
have been asking for introductions to the girl with the green sash. You