I got up very late the next morning, deliberately waiting until I knew his lordship would be out taking his ride. I was still angry with him, but otherwise things did not look so black as they had the night before. Next time I would be more sensible. I would rest, I would wear a becoming gown and I would show those society gossips that the new Lady Hardley was not to be easily put down or dismissed. And if my husband persisted in ignoring me, I would gather a court of gentleman who preferred to confine their flirtations to experienced married women who wouldn't take them too seriously. I would out-ignore my husband and see how he liked it! 
  I told Knott that I wasn't at home to callers. I wasn't left entirely without them, however. To my surprise, the door opened and 'Mr Lucas Bran...

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