She inclined her head in acquiescence but did not speak.
The matter appeared one of complete indifference to her.
In spite of his knowledge that this would be her attitude and he need not expect anything different Tristram's heart began to sink down into his boots, by the time they reached the house, and Francis Markrute whispered to his niece as they came up the steps: "I beg of you to be a little more gracious--the man has some spirit, you know!" So when they got into the library, and she began to pour out the tea for them, she made conversation.

But Tristram's teeth were set, and a steely light began to grow in his blue eyes.
She looked so astonishingly alluring there in her well-fitting, blue serge, traveling dress, yet he might not even kiss her white, slender hand! And there was a whole week before the wedding! And after it ?--would she keep up this icy barrier between them?
If so--but he refused to think of it! He noticed that she wore his engagement ring only, on her left hand, and that the right one was ringless, nor had she a brooch or any other jewel.

He felt glad--he would be able to give her everything.

His mother had been so splendid about the family jewels, insisting upon handing them over, and even in the short time one or two pieces had been reset, the better to please the presumably modern taste of the new bride of the Tancreds.

These, and the wonderful pearls, her uncle's gift, were waiting for her, up in her sitting-room.
"I think I will go and rest now until dinner," she said, and forced a smile as she moved towards the door.
It was the first time Tristram had ever seen her smile, and it thrilled him.