If Miss Clarke sealed off the sitting room, then other members of the household would be more disturbed by the inconvenience, and likely take more notice of or interest in the situation. Then they might actually send Edgar after it, and — well. Mor couldn't have that. She raised her eyebrows at Miss Clarke, an affected expression of surprise — her more severe expressions were always affected.

"My father's in business, Miss Clarke," Mor said, "He's always having important callers — he's in a meeting at the moment, but I'm certain he would request an alternative solution."