"And when that event comes off, you'll sail past the post lengths in front of any one else."
And with that Jerry took his departure. A minute later Diana heard the front door bang, and from the window watched him striding along the street. He looked back, just before he turned the corner, and waved his hand cheerily.
"Nice boy!" she murmured, and then set about her unpacking in good earnest.
CHAPTER XII
MAX ERRINGTON'S RETURN
It was the evening of Adrienne's reception, and Diana was adding a few last touches to her toilette for the occasion. Bunty had been playing the part of lady's maid, and now they both stood back to observe the result of their labours.
"You do look nice!" remarked Miss Bunting, in a tone of satisfaction.
Diana glanced half-shyly into the long glass panel of the wardrobe door. There was something vivid and arresting about her to-night, as though she were tremulously aware that she was about to take the first step along her road as a public singer. A touch of excitement had added an unwonted brilliance to her eyes, while a faint flush came and went swiftly in her cheeks.
Bunty, without knowing quite what it was that appealed, was suddenly conscious of the sheer physical charm of her.
"You are rather wonderful," she said consideringly.