He was aware, at the same time, that of this combination the "strongminded" note was not, as might have been apprehended, the basis; he was now sufficiently familiar with English-speaking types, he had sounded attentively enough such possibilities, for a quick vision of differences.

He had, besides, his own view of this young lady's strength of mind.

It was great, he had ground to believe, but it would never interfere with the play of her extremely personal, her always amusing taste.

This last was the thing in her--for she threw it out positively, on the spot, like a light--that she might have reappeared, during these moments, just to cool his worried eyes with.

He saw her in her light that immediate, exclusive address to their friend was like a lamp she was holding aloft for his benefit and for his pleasure.