"True, Lady Esmondet, and if the cards are his, the game is won, the difficulty over," said Trevalyon, with a glance at Vaura, "and bliss secured."
"Faith, you're right, Trevalyon."
Here Miss Marchmont's shrill voice was distinctly heard above the general hum, in animated discussion, saying,
"Oh, I'm sure he comes from the East."
The Rev. Douglas was evidently much amused and disputing the point;
Miss Marchmont continued,
"The dear creature has such a beautiful colour—so bronzed."
"I'll lay any wager 'the dear creature' means a soldier," said
Trevalyon to Vaura.
Vaura smilingly assented.
"A soldier," exclaimed Mrs. Marchmont in horror; "oh no, Capt.
Trevalyon, nothing so naughty; it's Miranda's last pet."
"But we women are given to petting the red-coats, Mrs. Marchmont," said Vaura with a laugh in her voice.