What consummate actresses women are! When Ronald entered her drawing-room, he expected to find Carmela pale and anxious, through fretting over his long absence from her side, and it was rather a blow to his self-love when she came forward with a bright, smiling face and outstretched hands.
"How do you do, Mr. Monteith?" she said, in her low, sweet voice; "you are quite a stranger."
Ronald muttered something about business as he took her hand, and then sat down, thinking to himself that this heartless coquette could never have cared for him. Carmela on her part, rang for afternoon tea, and then began to talk lightly of the most commonplace topics, much to Ronald's secret irritation.
"Sir Mark and Miss Trevor are out," she said, gaily, leaning back in her chair; "and it is a mere chance you found me in."
"When do you go to Marlow?" asked the Australian, abruptly.
"Next week, I think. I must confess I am a little tired of London."
"And Vassalla?"
She looked annoyed.
"I do not know what my cousin is going to do. Ah! here is the tea. Let me give you a cup;" rising and going to the table.
"Thank you," said Ronald, mechanically; "I want to speak to you on serious business."