And this wish was gratified.

On entering the drawing-room, whither he was led by the servant straightway, after the manner of the world, he found not only his cousin and her friend, but two strangers, ladies.

A glance informed him that both of these were young and good-looking, one being a type that particularly pleased him--dark, pale, with very bright eyes.
Miss Barfoot received him as any hostess would have done.

She was her cheerful self once more, and in a moment introduced him to the lady with whom she had been talking--the dark one, by name Mrs.Widdowson.
Rhoda Nunn, sitting apart with the second lady, gave him her hand, but at once resumed her conversation.
With Mrs.Widdowson he was soon chatting in his easy and graceful way, Miss Barfoot putting in a word now and then.

He saw that she had not long been married; a pleasant diffidence and the maidenly glance of her bright eyes indicated this.