She seemed rather to be pleading in self-defense than thinking of him.
"But, my dearest Philippa, I want no warning--I am very happy as to the matter I have nearest my heart. I thank you for bringing my sweet Madaline here. You do not seem to understand?"
She looked at him earnestly.
"Do you love her so very much, Norman?"
"I love her better than any words of mine can tell," he said. "The moment I saw her first I told you my dream was realized--I had found my ideal. I have loved her ever since."
"How strange!" murmured the duchess.
"Do you think it strange? Remember how fair and winsome she is--how sweet and gentle. I do not believe there is any one like her."
The white hand that, held the jeweled fan moved more vigorously.
"Why do you tell me this, Norman? What do you wish me to do?"
"You have always been so kind to me," he said, "you have ever been as a sister, my best, dearest, truest friend. I could not have a feeling of this kind without telling you of it. Do you remember how you used to tease me about my ideal. Neither of us thought in those days that I should find her under your roof."