Bundle gave a rather dismal sigh.

“She’s going to be at a house-party at George Lomax’s next week. He asked Father, who, of course, won’t go, but he never thought of asking me. Thinks I’m too much of an idiot, I suppose.”

It occurred to Lady Caterham that her niece was really wonderfully improved. Had she, perhaps, had an unfortunate love affair?

An unfortunate love affair, in Lady Caterham’s opinion, was often highly beneficial to young girls. It made them take life seriously.

“I don’t suppose George Lomax realises for a moment that you have⁠—shall we say, grown up? Eileen dear,” she said, “I must have a few words with him.”

“He doesn’t like me,” said Bundle. “I know he won’t ask me.”