It was about five of the clock and the gorgeous chamber was full of sunshine. The Countess sat by the window teasing a crimson and green macaw that swung in an ebony ring; she wore a black and white striped dress and a muslin fichu edged with glittering silver ribbon.
She did not rise to greet him.
"Good afternoon, Captain Lyndwood," she said, and continued to busy herself with the parrot; he hesitated a moment, then crossed the room to kiss her hand, still she did not look at him.
"My lord is abroad?" he asked.
The Countess lifted her shoulders.
"I suppose so."
Then she regarded him, covertly.
"You go to Paris, Captain Lyndwood?"
"I have not yet taken my resolution, madam."
She smiled and rose.