Following fast upon the seduction of sweet Susan, some conversations between Pearl and myself brought matters to a head, as I shall explain, for they preceded in essence at least the nuptial ceremony. Certain theories had been formed in my mind and in Pearl's which I was minded to put to the test as much as she. Full knowing, therefore, what was afoot in the stable—from whence no cries could be heard through the doors and windows of the house—I waited within in the company of Catherine, Mr. Maudsley, and Susan. Susan, of course, was all of a guilty flutter at being put to the presence of both her Mama and her future Papa within but a day of her conversion, but this was an act of deliberation whereby in concord with Pearl I sought to burst the bubble, as it were. Naught being said Of the absence of Pearl and Grace, I saw to it as well as a guest might that Catherine was well filled with wine and that Susan had several tipples herself. This, causing the latter to giggle and become flushed, Catherine would have quietened her and sent her to bed.
