Chapter FiveAs luncheon finished, the two elderly lady guests told the Duchess that they were going into the garden.
“Yes, do that,” the Duchess replied, “and I will join you a little later.”
She then turned to Pepita and Jeanie, who were following them and said in a harsh voice,
“I want to speak to you, Miss Linford.”
“I will take Jeanie to Mrs. Sutherland, Your Grace,” Pepita replied, “and then I will come to the drawing room.”
The Duchess did not reply. She merely walked ahead with the usual disdainful air that she always assumed when she was speaking to the children or Pepita.
Wondering what the Duchess could have to say to her, Pepita hurried Jeanie down the passage to the housekeeper’s room.
“I want to go out in the garden, Aunt Pepita!” Jeanie cried.
“We will in a few minute
