He encouraged her to talk on; he listened to the phrases of memory or expectation which revealed her history--her solitary bringing-up--her reserved and scholarly father--the singular closeness, and yet as it seemed strangeness of her relation to him.

It appeared, for instance, that it was only an accident, some years before, which had revealed to Diana the very existence of these cousins.

Her father had never spoken of them spontaneously.
"I hope she will be everything that is charming and delightful," he said at last as he rose.

"And remember--I am to come and see you!" He stooped his gray head, and gently touched her hand with an old man's freedom.
Diana warmly renewed her invitation.
"There is a house near you that I often go to--Sir William Felton's.

I am to be there in a few weeks.