under discussion.

'How will _she_ take it, do you think?' inquired Colonel Madison, of the
Life Guards, a man about town, and an inveterate gossip, who knew
everybody, and everybody's family history, down to the peccadilloes of
people's great grandmothers.

'You will have an opportunity of judging,' replied his lordship, coolly.
'She's to be here this evening.'

'But do you think she'll show?' asked the Colonel. 'The mail must have
brought the news to her, as well as to other people--supposing she knew
nothing about it beforehand. She must know that the storm has burst. Do
you think she'll----'

'Come out in the thunder and lightning?' interrupted Lord Denver; 'I'm
sure she will. She has the pride of Lucifer and the courage of a lion.
Five to one in ponies that she is here before the clock strikes seven!'

'I think you are right. I knew her mother, Constance Talmash. Pluck was
a family characteristic of the Talmashes. Wicked as devils, and brave as
lions. Old Talmash, the grandfather, shot his valet in a paroxysm of
_delirium tremens_,' said Colonel Madison. 'She's a splendid woman, and
she won't flinch. I'd rather back her than bet against her.'

'Lady Maulevrier!' announced the groom of the chambers; and Lady Denyer
moved at least three paces forward to meet her guest.

The lady who entered, with slow and stately movements and proudly
balanced head, might have served for a model as Juno or the Empress