Douglas’s face clouded. “You are privileged to say so,” he said.
“Not at all,” said Mrs. Fairfax, frightened. “But when I think of Marian, I feel like an old woman, and venture to remonstrate with all the presumption of age. I beg your pardon.”
He bowed. Then Marian joined them, and Mrs. Fairfax again gave tongue.
“Where have you been?” she cried. “You vanished from my side like a sprite. I have been searching for you ever since.”
“I have been looking at the pictures, of course. I am so glad you have come back, Sholto. I think you might have made time to pay us a visit before this. You look so strong and well! Your beard is a great improvement. Have you met Nelly?”
“I think we saw her at some distance,” said Douglas. “I have not been speaking to her.”
“How did you enjoy yourself while you were away?”
“As best I could.”
“You look as if you had succeeded very fairly. What o’clock is it? Remember that we have to meet Nelly at the turnstiles at six.”
“It is five minutes to six now, Miss Lind.”