She had arranged it all to her own
satisfaction--and was meanwhile flirting desperately, as we heard from
various people in the north, with Lord Philip Darcy. Oliver showed me
her letter, and at last told me the whole story. I persuaded him not to
answer it. A fortnight ago, she wrote again, proposing to come back
here--to 'look after' us--poor things! This time, _I_ replied. She would
like Tallyn, no doubt, as a place of retreat, should other plans fail;
but it will not be open to her!"
It was not energy now--vindictive energy--that was lacking to the
personality before him!
"An odious young woman" exclaimed Sir James, lifting hands and eyebrows.
"I am afraid I always thought so, saving your presence, Lady Lucy.
However, she will want a retreat; for her plans--in the quarter you
name--have not a chance of success."
"I am delighted to hear it!" said Lady Lucy, still erect and flushed.
"What do you know?"
"Simply that Lord Philip is not in the least likely to marry her,
having, I imagine, views in quite other quarters--so I am told. But he
is the least scrupulous of men--and no doubt if, at Eastham, she threw
herself into his arms--'what mother's son,' et cetera.
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