Meanwhile Glyndon besought Isabel, who recovered but slowly, to return home in his carriage.

(1) She had done so once or twice before, though she had never permitted him to accompany her.

This time she refused, and with some petulance.

Glyndon, offended, was retiring sullenly, when Gionetta stopped him.

"Stay, signor," said she, coaxingly, "the dear signora is not well: do not be angry with her; I will make her accept your offer." Glyndon stayed, and after a few moments spent in expostulation on the part of Gionetta, and resistance on that of Isabel, the offer was accepted; the actress, with a mixture of naivete and coquetry, gave her handy to her lover, who kissed it with delight.