'Downstairs they treat me as if I was a lady,' and it was spoken with the simple satisfaction which was one of her charming traits.
Till quite lately Gilbert had scarcely conversed with her at all.

When he broke his habitual silence he addressed himself to Lydia; if he did speak to the younger girl it was with studied courtesy and kindness, but he seemed unable to overcome a sort of shyness with which she had troubled him since the beginning of their acquaintance.

It was noticeable in his manner this evening when he shook hands with a murmured word or two.

Thyrza, however, appeared a little less timid than usual; she just met his look, and in a questioning way which he could not understand at the time.

The truth was, Thyrza wondered whether he had heard of her escapade of the night before; she tried to read his expression, searching for any hint of disapproval.
The easy chair was always given to her when she entered.