Horace would have responded, but the gong thundered.
"You were about to say that you hoped we were hungry," said Mask slyly; "that is what a hostess usually says."
"That," said Mrs. Palmer in her turn, "is a hint. Mr. Hill, will you take in Eva?--Mr. Mask----"
"I offer my arm to Mrs. Hill," said the old lawyer.
"In that case," said the widow, smiling, and with a look at the big American, "I must content myself with you."
Horace said something which made her smile and blush, and then they all went into a dainty meal, which every one enjoyed. After the terrible experiences of a year ago, each person seemed bent upon enjoyment, and the meal was a very bright one. When it was ended, the gentlemen did not sit over their wine, but joined the ladies almost immediately. Mrs. Palmer and Mrs. Hill were in the drawing-room talking in low tones, but Eva was nowhere to be seen. Allen looked around, and Mrs. Palmer laughed at the sight of his anxious face. "You'll find her in the garden," she said; "it's quite a perfect night of the Indian summer, therefore----"
Allen did not wait for further information. He departed at once and by the quickest way, directly through the French window, which happened to be open. A few steps along the terrace, under a full moon, showed him Eva walking on the lawn. At once he sprang down the steps. "Don't walk on the grass, you foolish child," he said, taking her arm, "you'll get your feet damp."
"It's too delicious a night for that," said Eva, lifting her lovely face to the silver moon; "but we can sit in the arbour----"
"Don't you think Parkins will want that? He's bound to come out with Mrs. Palmer, and then----"
"Does he really mean to propose?"