other was Betty's private property. Harriet had a little white bed
to herself, Betty and Aurelia nightly climbed into a lofty and solemn
structure curtained with ancient figured damask. Each had her own
toilette-table and a press for her clothes, where she contrived to
stow them in a wonderfully small space.

Harriet and Aurelia had divested themselves of their finery before
Betty came in, and they assisted her operations, Harriet preferring
a complaint that she never would tell them anything.

"I have no objection to tell you at fitting times," said Betty, "but
not with Palmer putting in his word. You should have discretion,
Harriet."

"The Dean's servants never speak when they are waiting at table," said
Harriet with a pout.

"But I'll warrant them to hear!" retorted Betty.

"And I had rather have our dear old honest corporal than a dozen of
those fine lackeys," said Aurelia. "But you will tell us the story
like a good sister, while we brush the powder out of our hair."

They put on powdering gowns, after releasing themselves from the armour
of their stays, and were at last at ease, each seated on a wooden chair
in the powdering closet, brush in hand, with a cloud of white dust
flying round, and the true colour of the hair beginning to appear.

"Then it is indeed true that My Lady is one of the greatest beauties
of Queen Caroline's Court, if not the greatest?" said Harriet.