He knows
nothing that _we_ know--and what do I care about his Socialist
stuff?--Well, now--Alicia"--her tone changed--"do you admire Alicia?"
Diana, in discomfort, glanced through the archway, leading to the inner
drawing-room, which framed the sparkling figure of Miss Drake--and
murmured a complimentary remark.
"No!"--said Lady Niton, with emphasis; "no--she's not handsome--though
she makes people believe she is. You'll see--in five years. Of course
the stupid men admire her, and she plays her cards very cleverly;
but--my dear!"--suddenly the formidable old woman bent forward, and
tapped Diana's arm with her fan--"let me give you a word of advice.
Don't be too innocent here--or too amiable. Don't give yourself
away--especially to Alicia!"
Diana had the disagreeable feeling of being looked through and through,
physically and mentally; though at the same time she was only very
vaguely conscious as to what there might be either for Lady Niton or
Miss Drake to see.
"Thank you very much," she said, trying to laugh it off. "It is very
kind of you to warn me--but really I don't think you need." She looked
round her waveringly.
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