At the upper end stands Marmaduke, laughing and talking gayly to a fair-haired, prettily-dressed woman, who in a lower class of existence, might be termed "buxom." To say she is inclining towards embonpoint will, however, sound less shocking to ears polite. I have heard from my husband that she is about thirty years of age, but in the quick glance I take at her I decide she might be any age under that, she is so white and soft and gay.
"Oh! here she is," says 'Duke, gladly, as I enter.
"I am so sorry!" I murmur, with a rising color, coming quickly forward; "but we did not expect you until five o'clock."
As I advance, so does she, and when we meet she lays two small plump, jewelled hands upon my shoulders.
"It was all my fault," she says, smiling. "When you know me better you will understand that I cannot help being in a hurry. However, you must forgive me this time, as my appearing at this hour is in itself a flattery, proving how impatient I was to see you." Then, regarding me attentively. "Why, what a child!" she cries; "what a baby! and what delicious eyes! Really, Marmaduke, I hardly know whether most to congratulate or—pity you."
She speaks with a curiously pretty accent, putting an emphasis on every third or fourth word that fascinates and pleases the listener.
"Pity!" return I, amazedly, making an unsuccessful effort to elude her firm grasp, while the indignant color flames into my cheeks. "You speak as if—why should you pity him?"
"Because, cannot you fancy what a life you are going to lead him," says her ladyship, with a little arch laugh that wrinkles up her Grecian no. "Child I too have eyes and I can see mischief written in every line of your—ugly little face."
I try to feel angry, but cannot. It is in her power to make every word she utters an undeveloped compliment. I succumb at once and forever, and give myself up to her merry true-hearted influence. Putting my frowns in my pocket, I laugh.
"If you keep on saying these things before 'Duke," I say, "he will find me out, and perhaps in time repent his bargain."