She didn't seem happy a while ago." Lady Belward was reassured.
"Yes, she is a sweet creature, Gaston," she said, and added: "You are a good boy to-night, a very good host indeed.

It is worth the doing," she went on, looking out on the guests proudly.

"I did not think I should ever come to it again with any heart, but I do it for you gladly.

Now, away to your duty," she added, tapping his breast affectionately with her fan, "and when everything is done, come and take me to my room." Ian Belward passed Gaston as he went.

He had seen the affectionate passages.
"'For a good boy!' 'God bless our Home!"' he said, ironically.
Gaston saw the mark of his hand on his uncle's chin, and he forbore ironical reply.
"The home is worth the blessing," he rejoined quietly, and passed on.
Three hours later the guests had all gone, and Lady Belward, leaning on her grandson's arm, went to her boudoir, while Ian and his father sought the library.