Vera laughed a little. "You shall look at me if you like when I have it on," she said, blushing faintly under his scrutiny.
"I am grateful to you for the permission; but I am bound to confess that I should look all the same had you forbidden me to do so."
Vera was pleased. She felt glad that he admired her. Was it not quite right and most desirable that her husband's brother should appreciate her beauty and ratify his good taste?
"When does your mother come?" she said, changing the subject quietly, but without effort.
"Only the very night of the ball, I am afraid. Tuesday, is it not?"
"Have you written to her about me? She does not like me, I fear."
"No; I will not write. She shall see you and judge for herself. I am not the least afraid of her not liking you when she knows you; and you will love her."
By this time they had wandered away from the house through the belt of shrubbery, and had emerged beyond upon the margin of the pool of water.
Vera stood still, suddenly struck with the sight.
"Is this Shadonake Bath?" she asked, below her breath.