Mrs. Fotheringham was if possible more extreme in opinions than her
brother, frequented platforms, had quarrelled with all her Conservative
relations, including a family of stepsons, and supported Women's
Suffrage. It was evident that Diana was steeling herself to some
endurance in this quarter. As to the other guests whom they might
expect, Diana knew little. She had heard that Mr. Ferrier was to be
there--ex-Home Secretary, and now leader of the Opposition--and old Lady
Niton. Diana retailed what gossip she knew of this rather famous
personage, whom three-fourths of the world found insolent and the rest
witty. "They say, anyway, that she can snub Mrs. Fotheringham," said
Diana, laughing.

"You met them abroad?"

"Only Mr. Marsham and Lady Lucy. Papa and I were walking over the hills
at Portofino. We fell in with him, and he asked us the way to San
Fruttuoso. We were going there, so we showed him. Papa liked him, and he
came to see us afterwards--several times. Lady Lucy came once."

"She is nice?"

"Oh yes," said Diana, vaguely, "she is quite beautiful for her age. You
never saw such lovely hands. And so fastidious--so dainty! I remember
feeling uncomfortable all the time, because I knew I had a tear in my
dress, and my hair was untidy--and I was certain she noticed."

"It's all rather alarming," said Mrs. Colwood, smiling.

"No, no!"--Diana turned upon her eagerly. "They're very kind--very, very
kind!"