He held both her hands, and she permitted him to retain them, for a longer moment of silent greeting than Joan thought necessary. But this circumstance alone betrayed whatever constraint was felt by either. A smile, vague and perhaps not lacking a thought of tender sadness, touched the lips and eyes of Venetia. Matthias returned his twisted and indefinitely apologetic grin.
"More than ever charming, Venetia!"
"Thank you, Jack."
If there were any hint of challenge in her tone or her straightforward eyes, Joan didn't detect it.
George Tankerville submitted with open resignation to the embrace of his sister.
"I suppose I've got to stand for this," he observed with philosophy. "Do you mean me to infer that you're humble and contrite?"
"Not in the least," Venetia retorted defiantly.
"Oh, very well," said he. "That being the case, I extend to you my belated blessing. How did you leave things on the other side?"
"Much as usual—and by steamer."
"When'd you get back?"