indicated Colin McKeith--'I do hope he is the man I asked for to take me
in to dinner--I told Vereker Wells that I wanted a new sensation--that man
looks as if he might give it to me--No, don't tell me: there's
excitement in uncertainty.'

She went on in eager monologue, giving no time for replies.

'It seems we've put the official backs up. Vereker Wells was determined
to follow Indian vice-regal precedents--so ridiculous--as I told him:
and as for Luke, he's got it on the brain that his mission is to uphold
the dignity of the British Throne. Like a NOUVEAU RICHE--terribly
afraid of doing the wrong thing and showing every moment that he's new
to the great Panjandrum part. . . . Ah so!' . . . an ejaculatory trick
of Bridget's. 'He IS my fate!'

Captain Vereker Wells brought up Colin who was holding himself stiffly,
limping just a little, as he did when he was nervous, and looking very
big and strong and masterful--likewise extraordinarily well-groomed
and tailored.

'Lady Bridget O'Hara, let me present Mr Colin McKeith.'

Lady Biddy looked up at Colin and he looked down at her.

'Do you think I can POSSIBLY reach your arm?' as he held his elbow
crooked to about the level of her shoulder. 'You know I asked to be
sent in with you--it was rather bold of me, wasn't it? But if I had
known how VERY tall you are!'

Mr McKeith lowered his arm, stooping over her, and Mrs Gildea heard him