To-day she was stouter, ruddier--the fiber of her had hardened, as it does with so many as the years come on; but she was still in full bloom--a little late in the summer, but in full bloom.
"Oh yes; and this Rembrandt--I'm surprised! I did not know your husband's collection was so representative.

Israels, I see, and Gerome, and Meissonier! Gad! It is a representative collection, isn't it ?" "Some of the things are excellent," she commented, with an air, aping Cowperwood and others, "but a number will be weeded out eventually--that Paul Potter and this Goy--as better examples come into the market." She had heard Cowperwood say as much, over and over.
Finding that conversation was possible between them in this easy, impersonal way, Aileen became quite natural and interested, pleased and entertained by his discreet and charming presence.

Evidently he did not intend to pay much more than a passing social call.

On the other hand, Lynde was studying her, wondering what effect his light, distant air was having.

As he finished a very casual survey of the gallery he remarked: "I have always wondered about this house.