The shuttlecock had been some time on the wing, struck to and fro with unerring aim, and to all appearances would never have touched the ground, if Lord Curryfin had not seen, or fancied he saw, symptoms of fatigue on the part of his fair antagonist. He therefore, instead of returning the shuttlecock, struck it upward, caught it in his hand, and presented it to her, saying, 'I give in. The victory is yours.' She answered, 'The victory is yours, as it always is, in courtesy.'
She said this with a melancholy smile, more fascinating to him than the most radiant expression from another. She withdrew to the drawing-room, motioning to him not to follow.
In the drawing-room she found Miss Gryll, who appeared to be reading; at any rate, a book was open before her.
Miss Gryll. You did not see me just now, as I passed through the hall. You saw only two things: the shuttlecock, and your partner in the game.
Miss Niphet.. It is not possible to play, and see anything but the shuttlecock.
Miss Gryll. And the hand that strikes it.
Miss Niphet.. That comes unavoidably into sight.
Miss Gryll. My dear Alice, you are in love, and do not choose to confess it.
