The chair I had chosen was one she had probably just left; it stood by a little table where were her open desk and papers.

I know not whether she had fully recognized me at first, but she did so now; and in a voice, soft but quiet, she returned my greeting.

I had shown no eagerness; she took her cue from me, and evinced no surprise.

We met as me had always met, as master and pupil--nothing more.

I proceeded to handle the papers; Frances, observant and serviceable, stepped into an inner room, brought a candle, lit it, placed it by me; then drew the curtain over the lattice, and having added a little fresh fuel to the already bright fire, she drew a second chair to the table and sat down at my right hand, a little removed.