“Next month,” said Hammerton.
“Thank God!” said the Countess in her heart.
“Your friend the artist is married to-day,” said the Earl; “a quiet wedding all to themselves, and a secret.”
“I understood it was to be so,” said Hammerton. “I hope they will be happy.”
“As happy as two other friends of yours,” said his lordship, merrily.
“Happier, if that were possible,” said Lionel.
“But it is not possible,” said his lordship. “Is it Amy?”
“I think not,” said Amy, casting a side-glance of defiance at Lionel. “When two people marry, happiness comes to them in a hundred different ways.”
“What do you think her ladyship’s wedding present is to be?” his lordship asked.
“Diamonds and pearls, and bracelets of gold, and rubies,” said Lionel. “Her ladyship has good choice of jewelry and things that are costly.”