This withdrawal of Mr.Dexter put both his wife and Mr.Hendrickson more at their ease.

Both felt his absence as a relief.

For a time the conversation was chiefly conducted by the latter and Mrs.Florence, only an occasional remark falling from the lips of Mrs.Dexter, and that almost extorted by question or reference.

But gradually she was drawn in, and led on, until she was the talker and they the listeners.
When interested in conversation, a fine enthusiasm always gave to the manners of Mrs.Dexter a charming grace, and to her beautiful countenance a higher beauty.

She was almost fascinating.