“No, I have not,” Virgie answered, thinking her new acquaintance had changed the subject rather abruptly.
“Then let me take you to examine them, Vir—Miss Alexander,” Rupert interposed, eagerly, glad of an excuse to get her again to himself, and Virgie, bowing a graceful adieu to Lillian, took his arm and allowed him to lead her from the room.
Lillian watched them with an angry, aching heart, but she was obliged to conceal her feelings, for she knew that others were observing her, and not for the world would she have her jealous fears suspected; so it was not long before she was again the life and center of an admiring circle.
Rupert led Virgie to a small room opposite the drawing-room, which had been fitted up in Japanese style, and where many curiosities and choice bric-a-brac from that country had been collected and tastefully arranged.
It was a lovely room, and Virgie was delighted with its unique treasures.
The lovers spent some time examining the different objects and in the enjoyment of each other’s society, and they had nearly made the round of the room when someone put aside the curtains of the door-way and entered.
Rupert glanced up, and then started forward, his face lighting with a smile of pleasure.
“Uncle Will,” he cried, “I did not know that you were coming here to-night. When did you arrive?”
“Only a few moments ago,” returned Sir William Heath, regarding his ward affectionately. “I did not expect that I should be able to accept Lady Dunforth’s invitation; in fact, I told Miriam I could not, but I managed to get through my business somewhat earlier than usual, and so concluded to drop in here for a little relaxation.”
“I am glad you did; you are working too hard, Uncle Will, and need more recreation. But come, I have a friend here whom I want you to know,” Rupert concluded, linking his arm within his guardian’s and leading him toward Virgie, who was examining an elaborate piece of embroidery on the opposite side of the room.