But Mr.
Masters would probably obey instructions if they were given to him
definitely.
She thought of it all and then went down to lunch. She did not dare
to refuse altogether to meet the other woman lest such resolve on
her part might teach those in the house to think that Lady Ushant
was the mistress. She took her place at the head of the table and
interchanged a few words with her grandson's guest,--which of
course had reference to his health. Lady Ushant was very ill able
to carry on a battle of any sort and was willing to show her
submission in everything,--unless she were desired to leave the
house. While they were still sitting at table, Reginald Morton
walked into the room. It had been his habit to do so regularly for
the last week. A daily visitor does not wait to have himself
announced. Reginald had considered the matter and had determined
that he would follow his practice just as though Mrs. Morton were
not there. If she were civil to him then would he be very courteous
to her. It had never occurred to him to expect conduct such as that
with which she greeted him. The old woman got up and looked at him
sternly. "My nephew, Reginald," said Lady Ushant, supposing that
some introduction might be necessary. Mrs. Morton gathered the
folds of her dress together and without a word stalked out of the
room.
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