As it chanced, Miriam was alone in the place, Nehushta having gone to attend to household affairs.

Thus for the first time they met with no other eyes to watch them.
At the sight of him she coloured, letting the cloth fall from her hand which remained about the neck of the marble.
"I ask your pardon, Lady Miriam," said Marcus, bowing gravely, "for breaking in thus upon your privacy; but time presses with me so that I lacked any to give notice to your guardians of my visit." "Are you leaving us ?" she faltered.
"Yes, I am leaving you." Miriam turned aside and picked up the cloth, then answered, "Well, the work is done, or will be in a few minutes; so if you think it worth the trouble, take it." "That is my intention.

The price I will settle with your uncles." She nodded.

"Yes, yes, but if you will permit me, I should like to pack it myself, so that it comes to no harm upon the journey.

Also with your leave I will retain the model, which by right belongs to you.