] If Lucy were prompting Anne to start the conversation, then the conspiracy theory would work well. But as it is, Lucy only ever seems to be applying the brakes.

LUcy's suspicion had just been raised by Edward's recent visit, and Anne knew about it. To me, the flow of the conversation sounds like Lucy might have told Anne before "Find out what she really thinks about Edward, but be careful not to say too much! I cannot say anything."