Fanny
wished--nay, was resolved--to be entertained and amused, Mrs. Colwood
threw herself with new zest into the various plans Diana had made for
her cousin. There was to be a luncheon-party, an afternoon tea, and so
forth. Only Diana, pricked by a new mistrust, said nothing in public
about an engagement she had (to spend a Saturday-to-Monday with Lady
Lucy at Tallyn three weeks later), though she and Muriel made anxious
plans as to what could be done to amuse Fanny during the two days.
Diana was alone in her room at night when Mrs. Colwood knocked. Would
Diana give her some lavender-water?--her headache was still severe.
Diana new to minister to her; but, once admitted, Muriel said no more of
her headache. Rather she began to soothe and caress Diana. Was she in
better spirits? Let her only intrust the entertaining of Fanny Merton to
her friend and companion--Mrs. Colwood would see to it. Diana laughed,
and silenced her with a kiss.
Presently they were sitting by the fire, Muriel Colwood in a large
arm-chair, a frail, fair creature, with her large dark-circled eyes, and
her thin hands and arms; Diana kneeling beside her.
"I had no idea what a poison poverty could be!" said Muriel, abruptly,
with her gaze on the fire.
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