He had strayed out after her on to the lawn, leaving Bell alone in the drawing-room.

Perhaps Lily had understood something of the boy's feelings, and had wished to speak kindly to him at parting, or almost more than kindly.

There is a silent love which women recognise, and which in some silent way they acknowledge,--giving gracious but silent thanks for the respect which accompanies it.
"I have come to say good-bye, Lily," said Johnny Eames, following the girl down one of the paths.
"Good-bye, John," said she, turning round.

"You know how sorry we are to lose you.

But it's a great thing for you to be going up to London." "Well, yes.