So occupied were the ladies of the Herbert party by the conversation of their numerous and brilliant attendants, that the approach of any one else but Lord Cadurcis might have been unnoticed by them, but a hundred tongues before he drew nigh had prepared Venetia for his appearance. She was indeed most anxious to behold him, and though she was aware that her heart fluttered not slightly as the moment was at hand, she commanded her gaze, and her eyes met his, although she was doubtful whether he might choose or care to recognise her. He bowed almost to the ground; and when Venetia had raised her responsive head he had passed by.
'Why, Cadurcis, you know Miss Herbert?' said his friend in a tone of some astonishment.
'Well; but it is a long time since I have seen her.'
'Is she not beautiful?'
'I never doubted on that subject; I tell you, Scrope, we must contrive to join her party. I wish we had some of our friends among them. Here comes the Monteagle; aid me to escape her.'
The most fascinating smile failed in arresting the progress of Cadurcis; fortunately, the lady was the centre of a brilliant band; all that he had to do, therefore, was boldly to proceed.
'Do you think my cousin is altered since you knew him?' inquired
George Cadurcis of Venetia.
'I scarcely had time to observe him,' she replied.
'I wish you would let me bring him to you. He did not know until this moment you were in town. I have not seen him since we met yesterday.'
'Oh, no,' said Venetia. 'Do not disturb him.'