Iris was above the reach of self-reproach, when her memory recalled the daring action which had saved Lord Harry at the milestone.

Her better sense acknowledged Hugh Mountjoy's superiority over the other man--but her heart, her perverse heart, remained true to its first choice in spite of her.

She made an impatient excuse and went out alone to recover her composure in the farm-house garden.
The hours of the evening passed slowly.
There was a pack of cards in the house; the women tried to amuse themselves, and failed.

Anxiety about Arthur preyed on the spirits of Miss Henley and Mrs.Lewson.Even the maid, who had only seen him during his last visit to London, said she wished to-morrow had come and gone.

His sweet temper, his handsome face, his lively talk had made Arthur a favourite everywhere.