I
These digressions about Parker and the journalists have certainly led me
astray from the story a little. You will, however, understand that while
the rising young journalist was still in pursuit of information, Hope
and Banghurst, and Parker merely a budding perfection, the carriage not
even thought of, things were already developing in that bright little
establishment beneath the evergreen oaks on the Folkestone Riviera. So
soon as the minds of the Buntings ceased to be altogether focused upon
this new and amazing social addition, they--of all people--had most
indisputably discovered, it became at first faintly and then very
clearly evident that their own simple pleasure in the possession of a
guest so beautiful as Miss Waters, so solidly wealthy and--in a
manner--so distinguished, was not entirely shared by the two young
ladies who were to have been their principal guests for the season.
This little rift was perceptible the very first time Mrs. Bunting had an
opportunity of talking over her new arrangements with Miss Glendower.
"And is she really going to stay with you all the summer?" said Adeline.
"Surely, dear, you don't mind?"
"It takes me a little by surprise."
"She's asked me, my dear----"
"I'm thinking of Harry. If the general election comes on in
September--and every one seems to think it will-- You promised you
would let us inundate you with electioneering."
"But do you think she----"
"She will be dreadfully in the way."