She has recognized them instantly, and only asked the question to "make assurance doubly sure." Some of the bitterness in the heart rises up to her face. Her lips curl in scorn.
Colonel Lockhart regards her anxiously, puzzled by the inexplicable change in her face.
"What is it, Vera? Do you know these people?" he asks.
"How should I know them?" she asks, trying to throw off the weight that has fallen on her heart.
"Are you ill, then? These flowers are too heavy and sweet, perhaps. Shall I take you away?" he inquires.
"Not yet," she answers.
She continues gazing steadily at Mrs. Cleveland and her daughter. To her heart she is saying over and over:
"I am face to face with my enemies at last. What form will my vengeance take?"
In a moment that question that she has asked herself so many times is terribly answered.
Watching Ivy with her strange, intent gaze, she sees a gentleman come up to her side.