One pale fair cloud hovered above the poplars opposite. Lord Lyndwood looked at it as he answered:
"There is no remark to be made about such a commonplace affair save this, that the lady is too good for me."
Mrs. Beale laughed.
"Too good—yes! You aren't seen with her much."
"Miss Hilton is indisposed," he answered. "And, by Gad, Fanny, I'll not have you speak in such fashion—of her or me!"
She wilted at once beneath the hint of his anger.
"Why, I meant no harm," she breathed quickly. "Forget about it, and come to see Statira to-night. You promised."
He rewarded her submission with a smile.
"I will be there from the rise of the curtain."
They sauntered on again. Mrs. Beale found consolation for much in the glances bestowed on her companion and by the reflection that half the town must have seen whom she walked with, yet this was only a passing pleasure merely softening deep and sad feeling.