Carmella Commands
“Whoever she is and whatever she is,” he said firmly, “She’s got something.”
Back in the reception room, Carmella was thinking over butlers in general and this butler in particular. But this pre-occupation did not prevent her from recording quick and accurate impressions of the room itself, done mostly in cream and rose, with carved needle-point chairs.
Carmella noted with some surprise that there was no Morris chair. She had expected to find the place filled with them. She must look into this.
Mrs. Barrington’s greeting was informally cordial. Carmella quickly noted her gown. No, she had not dressed up. Her own school dress was in perfect keeping with the affair. A slight flutter of triumph set her heart to trilling.
And then, for a fractional thought, she was conscious of picturing her mother, that afternoon, asking her with anxious detail what was worn. Maria would want to know that, even before she asked what food was served. And Carmella would have to tell her that the school dress was right. There was an instant’s sympathy with Maria. But then Carmella thought of the confirmation frock, and shuddered.
“Did Dixon bring you here without trouble?” asked Mrs. Barrington, motioning Carmella to a seat.
“Oh, yes! He’s a wonderful driver, isn’t he, Mrs. Barrington?”
“Dixon’s a very careful driver. By the way, Kate,
[81]
