Troy. "Mr. Moody, as a banker's son, is a gentleman
by birth," she remarked; "he has condescended, in becoming Lady
Lydiard's steward. What I saw of him, when he came here with you,
prepossessed me in his favor. He has my confidence, Isabel, as well as
yours--he is in every respect a superior person to Mr. Troy. Did you
meet any friends, my dear, when you were out walking?"
The answer to this question produced a species of transformation in Miss
Pink. The rapturous rank-worship of her nation feasted, so to speak, on
Hardyman's message. She looked taller and younger than usual--she was
all smiles and sweetness. "At last, Isabel, you have seen birth and
breeding under their right aspect," she said. "In the society of Lady
Lydiard, you cannot possibly have formed correct ideas of the English
aristocracy. Observe Mr. Hardyman when he does me the honor to call
to-morrow--and you will see the difference."
"Mr. Hardyman is your visitor, aunt--not mine. I was going to ask you to
let me remain upstairs in my room."
Miss Pink was unaffectedly shocked. "This is what you learn at Lady
Lydiard's!" she observed. "No, Isabel, your absence would be a breach
of good manners--I cannot possibly permit it. You will be present to
receive our distinguished friend with me. And mind this!" added Miss
Pink, in her most impressive manner, "If Mr. Hardyman should by any
chance ask why you have left Lady Lydiard, not one word about those
disgraceful circumstances which connect you with the loss of the
banknote! I should sink into the earth if the smallest hint of what
has really happened should reach Mr.
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