He only knew in an indefinite way that some such change had taken place, as all such changes do, not in intercourse, but in the intervals of absence.

It is a singular fact that we do not make our friends when they are near.

The seed of friendship and love alike is soon sown, and the best is that which germinates in absence.
That friendship had rapidly developed into something else Paul became aware early in the season; and, as we have seen from his conversation, Mrs.Sydney Bamborough, innocent and guileless as she was, might with all modesty have divined the state of his feelings had she been less overshadowed by her widow's weeds.
She apparently had no such suspicion, for she asked Paul in all good faith to call the next day and tell her all about Russia--"dear Russia." "My cousin Maggie," she added, "is staying with me.

She is a dear girl.
I am sure you will like her." Paul accepted with alacrity, but reserved to himself the option of hating Mrs.Sydney Bamborough's cousin Maggie, merely because that young lady existed and happened to be staying in Upper Brook Street.
At five o'clock the next afternoon he presented himself at the house of mourning, and completely filled up its small entrance-hall.
He was shown into the drawing-room, where he discovered Miss Margaret Delafield in the act of dragging her hat off in front of the mirror over the mantelpiece.

He heard a suppressed exclamation of amused horror, and found himself shaking hands with Mrs.Sydney Bamborough.
The lady mentioned Paul's name and her cousin's relationship in that casual manner which constitutes an introduction in these degenerate days.