She was alone--Blanche having gone out to visit a sick neighbor at Nina's request.

A form suddenly darkened the door, and some one entered hurriedly.

Nina raised her eyes, and met the gaze of a youthful strange, who had paused and stood looking at her with surprise and admiration.

With more confusion, but with not less of wonder and admiration, did Nina return the stranger's gaze.
"Is not this the cottage of Blanche Delebarre ?" asked he, after a moment's pause.

His voice was low and musical.
"It is," replied Nina.