Bosio was by far the least strong in character, but his very remarkable self-possession made him their equal in the present case.

On the previous evening, when Veronica had not been present, they had scarcely made an effort; but now that she was seated at table with them, they performed their parts conscientiously and not without success.
They were encouraged, too, by Veronica's manner to Bosio.

After her experience in the morning it was a distinct pleasure to be again in his society, and she talked enthusiastically to him of the Bride of Lammermoor--the book he had given her and which she had begun to read during her solitary dinner on the previous evening.

She was sure of the response to what she said, before she said it, and it came surely enough.

She felt that he understood her, and that she should be glad to talk with him every day.