But she cared little what Beatrice thought, provided that she could interest her.

She had a distinct intention in making the time slip by unnoticed, until it should be late.
She related her history, so far as it was known to herself, simply and graphically, substantially as it has been already set forth, but with an abundance of anecdote and comment which enhanced the interest and at the same time extended its limits, interspersing her monologues with remarks which called for an answer and which served as tests of her companion's attention.

She hinted but lightly at her possession of unusual power over animals, and spoke not at all of the influence she could exert upon people.

Beatrice listened eagerly.

She could have told, on her part, that for years her own life had been dull and empty, and that it was long since she had talked with any one who had so roused her interest.
At last Unorna was silent.