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 "One of the mysteries of biology," said the Honorable John Ruffin carelessly.

"But Marion belongs—in looks at any rate—to my side of the family. She's a red Deeping," said the lady.

"And that's what Pollyooly is! Of course—I see it now!" cried the Honorable John Ruffin in the triumphant tones of a discoverer. "Her great-aunt was Lady Constantia Deeping's housekeeper at Deeping Hall. Pollyooly came from Muttle-Deeping. It's wonderful how the old strains crop up among the village folk. You're a red Deeping, Pollyooly; that's what you are."

"Yes, sir. Please, sir, what is a red Deeping?" said Pollyooly, knitting her brow.

"The red Deepings have always been renowned for the fieriness of their hair and their tempers—a truculent, cantankerous set. I must beware, I see. I must certainly beware," said the Honorable John Ruffin.

"Yes, sir," said Pollyooly.

"At the same time there are not many people who can boast of having a red Deeping as housekeeper.