"
"I am quite ready to join you if I can be of any help," said Mrs.
Gradinger. "When knowledge is to be acquired, I am always loath to
stand aside, not for my own sake so much as for the sake of others
less fortunate, to whom I might possibly impart it hereafter."
"You are very good," said the Marchesa, "but I think I must adhere
to my original scheme of having Mrs. Sinclair by herself. I see
coffee is now being taken into the garden, so we will adjourn, if
you please."
After the two workers had departed for the kitchen, an unwonted
silence fell on the party under the chestnuts. Probably every one
was pondering over the imminent dissolution of the company, and
wondering whether to regret or rejoice. The peace had been kept
marvellously well, considering the composition of the company.
Mrs. Fothergill at times had made a show of posing as the
beneficent patron, and Mrs. Gradinger had essayed to teach what
nobody wanted to learn; but firm and judicious snubbing had kept
these persons in their proper places.
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