Then she did something she had never done before in the presence of another.

She walked quickly to Hugh's side, bent over and kissed his lips, almost as he gasped in astonishment.
"Good-night, dear," she said, quite audibly, and was gone with Lady Huntingford.

The astounded lover was some time in recovering from the surprise inspired by her unexpected act.

It was the first time she had ever been sisterly in that fashion before the eyes of others.
"I hope I have said nothing to offend them," said Veath miserably.

"Was I too abrupt ?" "Not in the least.