The countess braced herself, and with an ill grace performed the brief ceremony of presentation.
Mistress Winthrop looked up an instant, then down again; it was a piteous, almost a pleading glance.
Lady Mary, leaving the countess to Sir Harry Stapleton, Caryll and the others, moved to Hortensia's side for a moment she was at loss what to say, and took refuge in a commonplace.
"I have long desired the pleasure of your acquaintance," said she.
"I am honored, madam," replied Hortensia, with downcast eyes.

Then lifting them with almost disconcerting suddenness.

"Your ladyship has chosen an odd season in which to gratify this desire with which you honor me." Lady Mary laughed, as much at the remark as for the benefit of those whose eyes were upon her.

She knew there would not be wanting many who would condemn her; but these should be far outnumbered by those who would be lost in admiration of her daring, that she could so fly in the face of public opinion; and she was grateful to Mr.Caryll for having suggested to her a course of such distinction.
"I could have chosen no better season," she replied, "to mark my scorn of evil tongues and backbiters." Color stained Hortensia's cheek again; gratitude glowed in her eyes.
"You are very noble, madam," she answered with flattering earnestness.
"La!" said the Lady Mary.

"Is nobility, then, so easily achieved ?" And thereafter they talked of inconsequent trifles, until Mr.Caryll moved towards them, and Lady Mary turned aside to speak to the countess.
At Mr.Caryll's approach Hortensia's eyes had been lowered again, and she made no offer to address him as he stood before her now, hat under arm, leaning easily upon his amber cane.
"Oh, heart of stone!" said he at last.