"There is a mystery," she said to herself; "there is something between him and my darling!"
The mother's first impulse was to screen her, to help her. Lady Linleigh crossed the room and went to her.
"Doris," she said, in a clear distinct voice, that all might hear, "Doris, do not go if you prefer remaining here."
The girl raised her eyes to the calm gentle face, and Lady Linleigh was shocked to see tears in them.
"Thank you," she said, calmly; "I shall enjoy going out. Who could resist the moon and the flowers?"
"Then do not remain long. You look tired, and we must remember you are not strong."
Lord Vivianne joined them.
"Lady Studleigh has graciously promised to show me the fountains by moonlight. I will watch her faithfully, and at the first symptom of fatigue I promise you she shall return."
Then the countess could say no more. She saw Lord Vivianne carefully draw the black lace shawl over the white neck and arms.
"Not that you can be cold," he said, in reply to some objection, "but, as Lady Linleigh says, we must be careful of you."