The party was seated, and rather stiff talk was passing between the relatives, who had not met in this friendly fashion for a long time. Suddenly and quietly the door was opened, and Miss Marjory entered, her amber satin, lace, and diamonds giving her an imposing appearance, in spite of her short stature.
Maud thought she looked just like a fairy godmother, with her yellow dress, bright eyes and resolute determined manner.
Mrs. Belassis eyed her curiously, not altogether liking the first impression she received.
Mr. Belassis’ jaw dropped, and the florid colour faded slowly from his face.
Tor advanced and introduced the guest to his aunt and uncle, and Miss Marjory’s bow included the whole party, as she gracefully subsided into a seat, and looked smilingly at the wretched Belassis.
‘Surely we are not strangers to one another, Mr. Belassis. I thought the name was too uncommon to deceive me. A second Alfred Belassis, a contemporary, would be too remarkable a phenomenon. I hope you are quite well?’
‘Quite, thank you,’ muttered Belassis, feeling delightfully conscious that his wife’s eye was upon him.
‘You have not visited Whitbury lately, I think?’ went on Miss Marjory pleasantly.
‘N—no, not lately.’
‘I do not think I have seen you since you were quite a young man; still, I am sure I should know you anywhere.’