Marian had flushed slightly at the sound; and Elinor, with her feet stretched out before her, lapped the carpet restlessly with her heels, and watched her cousin sourly as Douglas entered. He was in evening dress.
“Good-evening,” said Elinor. “So you are going to the theatre, too?”
“Why?” said Douglas. “Is any one coming with us? Shall we have the pleasure of your company?”
“No,” replied Elinor, drily. “I thought Mr. Conolly was perhaps going with you.”
“I shall be very glad, I am sure, if he will,” said Douglas.
“He will not,” said Marian. “I doubt if he will come home before we start.”
“You got my flowers safely, I see.”
“Yes, thank you. They are beautiful.”
“They need be, if you are to wear them.”
“I think I will go,” said Elinor, “if you can spare me. Marian has been far from amiable; and if you are going to pay her compliments, I shall very soon be as bad as she. Good-bye.” Douglas gratefully went with her to the door. She looked very hard at him, and almost made a grimace as they parted; but she said nothing.