Bernard, indeed, had no opportunity for investigating her state of mind, for he found several people in the house, and Blanche, who had an exalted standard of the duties of a hostess, was occupied in making life agreeable to her guests, most of whom were gentlemen.

She had in this way that great remedy for dissatisfaction which Bernard lacked--something interesting to do.

Bernard felt a good deal of genuine sadness in taking leave of Gordon, to whom he contrived to feel even more kindly than in earlier days.

He had quite forgotten that Gordon was jealous of him--which he was not, as Bernard said.

Certainly, Gordon showed nothing of it now, and nothing could have been more friendly than their parting.