But a second look into the wide dark eyes would have found there rather a trace of pathos, bordering upon melancholy; and the lines of the mouth, strongly curved, would in all likelihood have gained that sympathy demanded by the eyes, betokening a nature warm and noble, not petty or mean, and certainly not insignificant.
Such was the woman of the hour in Washington, lately frowned on by the ladies as too beautiful, talked about by the gentlemen as too cold, discussed by some, adored by others, understood by none, dreaded by some high in power, plotted against by others yet more high in place.
She cast a hurried glance now at the clock which, tall and solemn, stood near by in the hall.

It was upon the stroke of midnight only.

Turning half questioningly to her maid, she heard a footfall.

The manager of the hotel himself came to greet her, carrying a card in his hand, and with a bow, asking her attention.
"Well, then," began the young woman, in perfect English, glancing at the card.

Her dark eyes rose to meet his.