How many holy memories rushed like a flood over her heart and soul, burying for a time the bitter experience of to-day!
Unable to conclude the song, she leaned back in her chair, and gave way to the tears that rolled swiftly down her cheeks.
So wan and hopeless was her face that Mr. Palma, watching her from the curtained alcove, came quickly forward.
He was elegantly dressed in full evening toilette, and, throwing his white gloves on the table, approached his ward.
At sight of him she started up, and hastily wiped away the tears that obstinately dripped despite her efforts.
"Oh, sir! I hoped you would forget to come home, and would go to Mrs.
Tarrant's. I did not know you were in the house."
"I never forget my duties, and though I am going to Mrs. Tarrant's after a while, I attend to 'business before pleasure'; it has been my lifelong habit."
His new suit of black, and the white vest and cravat were singularly becoming to him. He was aware of the fact; and even in the midst of her anxiety and depression, Regina thought she had never seen him look so handsome.
"I wish to ask you a few questions. Was it actual bodily sickness, physical pain, that kept you in your room during dinner, at which I particularly desired your attendance?"
"I cannot say that it was."