Once more they approached the happy pair, and, leaning forward,
Cornelia said hoarsely:
"Eugene, my father is engaged; come home with me."
He looked up, and answered carelessly: "Oh, you are leaving too early. Can't you entertain yourself a little longer?"
"No, sir."
Her freezing tone startled him, and for the first time he noticed the haggard face, with its expression of angry scorn. Her eyes were fixed on Antoinette, who only smiled and looked triumphantly defiant.
"Are you ill, Cornelia? Of course I will take you home if you really desire it. Doctor, I must consign Miss Dupres to your care till I return."
Eugene by no means relished the expression of his sister's countenance. She bade Dr. Harwell adieu, passed her arm through her brother's, and they proceeded to their carriage. The ride was short and silent. On reaching home, Eugene conducted Cornelia into the house, and was about to return when she said imperiously:
"A word with you before you go."
She entered the sitting room, threw her wrappings on a chair, and began to divest herself of bracelets and necklace. Eugene lighted a cigar and stood waiting to hear what she might choose to communicate. Fastening her brilliant black eyes on his face, she said sneeringly:
"Eugene Graham, did you learn dissimulation in the halls of
Heidelberg?"