'But, good heavens, Anne,' said Hyacinth, 'why on earth should we make a
secret of Mr Reeve being here?'

'Why, because I said you were out.'

'Well, I'll go and explain,' said Hyacinth.

'Indeed you won't. You're not to go and give me away. Besides, I won't
be baffled by that old cat. She's suspicious already. Out you go!'

Cecil took his hat and stick, and went out of the front door.

Anne ran upstairs, brought down Hyacinth's hat, veil, and gloves, and
pushed her towards the drawing-room.

'Don't you see?--she'll think you've just come in,' said Anne.

'What about the coachman and footman?'

'Oh, good heavens, do you think they're going to call on her and tell
her all about it?'

Just as Hyacinth, laughing, was going into the drawing-room, Anne
clutched her, and said--

'I don't know that you'd better be at home after all! Charles will be
calling directly. Oh, I forgot, he won't come in when he sees the
carriage.'