Hylda became conscious of a sudden sharp inquiry going on in her mind.

There flashed into it the question, Does Eglington's heart ever really throb for love of any object or any cause?
Even in moments of greatest intimacy, soon after marriage, when he was most demonstrative towards her, he had seemed preoccupied, except when speaking about himself and what he meant to do.

Then he made her heart throb in response to his confident, ardent words--concerning himself.

But his own heart, did it throb?
Or was it only his brain that throbbed?
Suddenly, with an exclamation, she involuntarily laid a hand upon Windlehurst's arm.

She was looking down the room straight before her to a group of people towards which other groups were now converging, attracted by one who seemed to be a centre of interest.
Presently the eager onlookers drew aside, and Lord Windlehurst observed moving up the room a figure he had never seen before.