Page:Jepson--Pollyooly.djvu/342

 not know what the rules about a housekeeper's followers are. They may be allowed in the house."

"Yes, sir," said Pollyooly.

"You see, it's a very important matter; it must be put on a proper footing. It would never do to have any laxness in it, for we might run counter to the established tradition, which would be horrible. Besides, one scion of a noble family is sure to lead to others."

"Yes, sir," said Pollyooly. "Can I go with him to the Varolium to-morrow afternoon, sir?"

"That's awkward. Suppose you were mistaken for Lady Marion Deeping?" said the Honorable John Ruffin doubtfully. "Of course, you danced there. But that was very different; no one would ever dream that Lady Marion Ricksborough would be on the Varolium stage. But they would be quick enough to recognize her in the auditorium—with her cousin, too."

Pollyooly's face fell.

"Well, that can't be helped. It wouldn't be fair that you should be deprived of the simple pleasures of London because you once helped to restore a daughter to her mother," the Honorable John Ruffin