She was told by the servant that Lady Eustace was in
bed; but, with her usual persistence, she asked questions, and when she
found that Lizzie did receive visitors in her room, she sent up her card.
The compliment was one much too great to be refused. Lady Glencora stood
so high in the world that her countenance would be almost as valuable as
another lover. If Lord George would keep her secret, and Lady Glencora
would be her friend, might she not still be a successful woman? So Lady
Glencora Palliser was shown up to Lizzie's chamber. Lizzie was found with
her nicest nightcap and prettiest handkerchief, with a volume of
Tennyson's poetry, and a scent-bottle. She knew that it behooved her to be
very clever at this interview. Her instinct told her that her first
greeting should show more of surprise than of gratification. Accordingly,
in a pretty, feminine, almost childish way, she was very much surprised.
"I'm doing the strangest thing in the world, I know, Lady Eustace," said
Lady Glencora with a smile.
"I'm sure you mean to do a kind thing."
"Well, yes, I do. I think we have not met since you were at my house near
the end of last season.
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