Alice had half a mind to differ, or to make any remark that might rid her from Mr. Bott. But she did not dare to say a word that might seem to have been said playfully. "Yes, indeed," she replied. "How very cold it is to-night!" She was angry with herself for her own stupidity as soon as the phrase was out of her mouth, and then she almost laughed as she thought of the Duchess and the hot-water pipes at Longroyston.
"Yes, it is cold. You and her ladyship are great friends, I believe, Miss Vavasor."
"She is my cousin," said Alice.

Alice had half a mind to argue to get rid of him. But she did not dare.
"Yes, indeed," she replied. "How very cold it is tonight!"
"Yes, it is cold. You and her ladyship are great friends, I believe, Miss Vavasor."
"She is my cousin," said Alice.
