"Ruby! Ruby!"
"What is it? Who's there? Who's there?"
The voice that replied sounded both languid and surprised.
"I--Nigel!"
Mrs. Armine sat up.
"What is it, Nigel? I'm lying down."
"Oh, I'm--I'm sorry if I've disturbed you, but--you're not ill?"
"No, only resting. What is it, Nigel?"
"I've brought Baroudi over to see you and the villa, and to dine with us to-night."
"Oh--very well."
"You don't mind, Ruby?"
The voice outside the door was suddenly very low.
"Go down and entertain him, and I'll come almost directly."
The handle creaked, as he let it go, but for a moment there was no sound of retreating footsteps.
"Look here, Ruby, if--"
"Go down! I'll come directly."
Footsteps went towards the stairs.
"Get me into my gown! Wait--change my stockings first."
Marie knelt down quickly on the floor. As she bent her head, she was smiling.
She began to understand.