"Do you admire her?"
"If you mean do I think she is beautiful, yes."
"But do you think she is good? Do you think she is what she appears?"
"You must excuse me, Miss Pyne. I have not your right to discuss the lady in question."
Mrs. Pryor, not approving the conversation, arose from the table, giving the signal to the ladies.
Lowell arose, and opened the door for them to pass through, then he resumed his seat.
He was the host, in the absence of Mr. Pryor, and he knew that he must remain at the table until his guest was ready to leave it.
During the time that the butler was arranging the cigars and wine upon the table, after the departure of the ladies, he felt those glowing eyes fixed upon his face.
The wine was poured, and the butler handed the cigars.
As they were passed to Neil, he glanced up, and saw those curious, questioning eyes still fixed upon him. He selected a cigar with greatest nonchalance; the lighted candles were placed for their use, and the butler retired.