The dull flush deepened on Tressilvain's averted face, but Lady Tressilvain, unusually pale, watched her brother persistently during the general conversation that preceded dressing for dinner.
CHAPTER XXVI
SEALED INSTRUCTIONS
After the guests had gone away to dress Portlaw looked inquiringly at Malcourt and said: "That misdeal may have been a slip. I begin to believe I was mistaken after all. What do you think, Louis?"
Malcourt's eyes wandered toward his wife who still bent low over her sewing. "I don't think," he said absently, and sauntered over to Shiela, saying:
"It's rather dull for you, isn't it?"
She made no reply until Portlaw had gone upstairs; then looking around at him:
"Is there any necessity for me to sit here while you play cards this evening?"
"No, if it doesn't amuse you."