‘It was to escape from the eternal parties that we came down here,’ said Lady Carbury.

She had nevertheless been anxious to hear what guests were expected at the Manor House.  Sir Felix had promised to come down on Saturday, with the intention of returning on Monday, and Lady Carbury had hoped that some visiting might be arranged between Caversham and the Manor House, so that her son might have the full advantage of his closeness to Marie Melmotte.

‘I have asked the Longestaffes for Monday,’ said Roger.

‘They are down here then?’

’I think they arrived yesterday.  There is always a flustering breeze in the air and a perturbation generally through the county when they come or go, and I think I perceived the effects about four in the afternoon.  They won’t come, I dare...