And if Miss De Stancy continues seriously unwell I shall not play at all.' The young man pressed her hand, but she gently slipped it away.
'Are we not engaged, Paula!' he asked.

She evasively shook her head.
'Come--yes we are! Shall we tell your aunt ?' he continued.

Unluckily at that moment Mrs.Goodman, who had followed them to the studio at a slower pace, appeared round the doorway.
'No,--to the last,' replied Paula hastily.

Then her aunt entered, and the conversation was no longer personal.
Somerset took his departure in a serener mood though not completely assured.
VIII.
His serenity continued during two or three following days, when, continuing at the castle, he got pleasant glimpses of Paula now and then.

Her strong desire that his love for her should be kept secret, perplexed him; but his affection was generous, and he acquiesced in that desire.
Meanwhile news of the forthcoming dramatic performance radiated in every direction.