He sought the presence chamber at the usual hour, but it was deserted; and after waiting a short while he was on the point of leaving when the arras suddenly parted and the Countess entered.
"I am glad to see you," she said, giving him her hand, "even though you are a laggard and a thief."
"Why laggard?" De Lacy asked.
"Because you should be with the Duke and not here."
"Granted," said he. "Did you call Lord Darby laggard, too?"
"You will have to ask him; I do not now remember."
"I passed him at the gate, and from his temper I might guess you called him even worse."
"At least I know I did not dub him thief." Then she held out her hand. "The kerchief," she said peremptorily.
De Lacy slowly drew forth the bit of lace.
"Rather would I lose a quartering," he said very gently, "yet, in honor, I may not keep it against your will."