"Yes, and a very beautiful performance it is," said Ralph. He recalled the scene, which represented a Greek temple, before which Miss Pearl, in scanty white robes, danced in a slow and graceful manner, chanting--she was right, the word was chanting--stately words to solemn music. Also she danced the Flower Dance of the Anthesterian Festival, which was of a more lively character. "It is a very beautiful performance," repeated Ralph, emphatically.
"I am glad you think so," said Miss Pearl, with a slow, sweet smile. "Those three dances took me a year to learn. I thought I would never master them; but in the end I did. Then I appeared, and was a success. I don't quite like the Greek dress," added the dancer, confidentially, "as it scarcely covers one; but, so long as I am respectable, what does it matter?"
Ralph laughed in a somewhat embarrassed manner. He was beginning to like Miss Pearl, because she was so childlike and unaffected. "I think you look perfectly respectable," he said with a smile.
"I am glad you think so," said Miss Pearl once more. She did not seem to have many ideas. "I get a good salary, and for three years I have been dancing everywhere, so I have saved money, and I am able to help mother. She was shocked at first, being a consistent Baptist; but now she is reconciled to the idea, as she knows that I have never forgotten my early teaching. But my success won't last for ever. I am clever enough to see that, so I intend to marry Sir Joseph Branwin, and I hope to make him a good wife."
"I am sure you will," said Shawe, heartily, and felt as though he were encouraging a child. "You have known him long?"
"For two years. He has always been a good friend to me, although I have invariably kept him at arm's length. But now that his wife is dead he wants to marry me."
"And you say that you will marry him?"
Miss Pearl looked at Shawe very directly. "I think I shall marry him; but, of course, I may not. I have not yet made up my mind."
"But you said just now--"
"Yes, I know what I said, Mr. Shawe. But one can never be sure of anything in this world of trouble. However, it doesn't much matter if I marry him or not, as I have saved a lot of money, and I am quite content to go back to my village and live with my parents. And now, Mr. Shawe, that I have told you all about myself, perhaps you will explain why you wish to see me."