Lady Dorothy.

Another of the customs of Freda's country, it seems. Ah, Christmas is the children's festival! Isn't it pitiful to think that even in the enemy country children as young and innocent as our Peggy may have said a prayer for peace to-night.

Sir Robert.
[A little uneasily.] H'm—yes! [Having finished his letters Sir Robert touches a bell attached to desk. Secretary, in khaki, enters by lower door, R. Sir Robert hands him the letter-basket. Secretary goes out as he came.] [Rising.] Has Freda any friends to call upon, think you?

Lady Dorothy.
None whatever. Except ourselves she hasn't a friend in London. But don't be afraid. Freda is a quiet, modest, unassuming girl, but she's quite capable of taking care of herself, dear.

Sir Robert.
[Back to fire.] Our little darling is very fond of her, isn't she?

Lady Dorothy.
She loves her. We all do.

Sir Robert.
And yet I seem to remember that when she came here first——

Lady Dorothy.
Oh yes, I know, I thought it was taking a risk to engage somebody we had never seen and knew