Salome decided that it was the best policy to remain where they were, and not attempt flight. She saw that her sister was suffering, and she determined to remain with her, to protect and comfort her, and await what the future had in store for herself. She naturally felt a great longing to be at home with her baby, but at the same time she recognised that the situation at home was not tolerable, that some change must take place before she could return to Mergatroyd.
One day, Colonel Yeo was in the salle-à-manger at the Hôtel Impérial preparing for table d'hôte, when a lady entered, well dressed, dark haired, with fine eyes, and swept up the room towards an alcove where were small tables, at which either a party sat that desired to be alone, or tourists not intending to dine at table d'hôte but à la carte. She walked slowly, with a certain dignity, and attracted all eyes. Every head was turned to observe her, and her eyes, in return, passed over as mustering and apprising those who occupied their seats at the table. She accepted the homage of interest she excited, as though it were her own.
What was her age? She had arrived at that period of life at which for some time a woman stands still—she was no girl, and no one could say that she was passée.
'Waiter!' called Colonel Yeo.
'Yes, sir—in a minute, sir.'
'Who is that lady in the gray dress with red trimmings?'
'Gray dress, sir? The stout lady with the little husband?'
'Nonsense, that distinguished lady—young—there at the table in the alcove.'
'Yes, sir—don't know, sir. Will inquire.'
Off skipped the waiter to carry round the soup, and forgot to inquire.