She started as she heard her name pronounced in a singularly pleasing voice, and, turning around, saw that Mr. Delessert was standing beside her.
“I fear I have offended you in some way,” he said, in a contrite tone.
“Oh, no, you did not offend me,” she said, shyly. “That is, not much.”
“I am glad you are not deeply incensed,” he went on, with a relieved air. “It emboldens me to ask a great favour of you.”
Although Nina gave him no encouragement beyond an attentive silence, he went on, “Is it your intention to spend the evening with Miss Marsden?”
Nina was surprised at his knowledge of the name and habitation of a person who had not yet made a public appearance; but she said, graciously, “Yes, if she wants me.”
“If she does not, will you come to the library and play whist? Mrs. Grayley is much better. She wished me to ask you.”
“I don’t know how to play.”
There were signs of a baffled purpose on his face rather than of disappointment. After some reflection, he said, “Perhaps you would like to go and walk on deck.”
“Captain Fordyce asked me not to go up again to-night. The decks are so shaky.”