He drew back startled; her words seemed to rouse him into sudden
consciousness. She was quick enough to see it, and, with the _distrait_
manner of a true woman of the world, quickly changed the subject. She
asked some trifling question about Beechgrove, and then said, suddenly:

"I should like to see that fine old place of yours, Norman. I was only
ten when mamma took me there the last time; that was rather too young to
appreciate its treasures. I should like to see it again."

"I hope you will see it, Philippa; I have many curiosities to show you.
I have sent home treasures from every great city I have visited."

She looked at him half wonderingly, half wistfully, but he said no more.
Could it be that he had no thought of ever asking her to be mistress and
queen of this house of his?

"You must have a party in the autumn," she said. "Lady Peters and I must
be among your guests."

"That will be an honor. I shall keep you to your word, Philippa." And
then he rose to go.

The dark, wistful eyes followed him. She drew a little nearer to him as
he held out his hand to say good-night.

"You are quite sure, Norman, that you are pleased to see me again?" she
interrogated, gently.

"Pleased! Why, Philippa, of course I am. What a strange question!"