She was completely mystified, for it did not occur to her that the madame, seeing the peculiar effect the portrait in the locket had upon her, had taken the precaution to remove it while she was lying senseless in the adjoining room.
Lena reached home a short time before her mother returned from the opera, and waited in the drawing-room to receive her.
Mrs. Van Hoosen did not come back alone.
She was accompanied by Lord Maltravers.
"You look distraite, my dear," said Mrs. Van Hoosen. "I hope your head is better?"
"A little, mamma," replied Lena, flushing, as she extended her hand to Maltravers, adding, "How do you do? it is some time since we met."
"Yes, indeed. It seems an age to me."
"Did you like the opera, mamma?"
"I cannot say I did. It was Lohengrin. Wagner may have his admirers, but for my part I do not care for the music of the future."
Saying this, Mrs. Van Hoosen retired to take off her bonnet and left the young people together.