He had scarcely time to note these particulars before the door was opened, and Esther came towards him quickly, looking a little pale and excited, her fair hair tumbled about her face, and the long train of her négligé making a slight rustle as she moved. She came close up to him and raised her eyes to his; they caught the reflection of the hopeful gladness therein, and her cheeks flushed suddenly, as she cried, putting out her hand and touching his arm:
"Philip, oh, Philip, you have news—good news?"
Her voice had a ring of expectancy in it that did not escape Philip.
"Esther," he replied, looking down at her steadily, and speaking gravely, "I have come to you at this late hour for one reason only—to ask you one question. Will you be frank and honest in your answer?"
"Ah," she exclaimed, "there are both reproach and reflection in your words. Ask me the question first, Philip, and judge of my veracity by my reply."
She turned and walked to the couch, seated herself, and, taking up the strip of embroidery, examined it attentively.
Mr. Tremain followed her.
"It is all very well, your trying to parry my thrust, Esther; but it is useless. I shall oblige you to give me a direct answer."
He drew up a chair as he spoke, and, as he sat down, took from his pocket a note-case.
"Will you oblige me by reading this letter?" he said, handing her Mainwaring's communication.