But, come," added he, aloud; "I perceive that dinner is served; and so let us adjourn to the table!" Gustave led in the blushing girl, and the elders followed admiringly in their rear, while the merchant shook his finger coquettishly at his gallant nephew.

De Vlierbeck placed Monsieur Denecker opposite him at table, and made Gustave the _vis-a-vis_ of Lenora.
Bess brought in the dishes, while her son waited on the guests.

The viands were prepared with considerable skill, and Denecker took frequent occasion to express his satisfaction with their exquisite flavor.

In truth, he was rather surprised at the sumptuousness of the repast; for he had been prepared to expect lenten fare in a household which was renowned throughout the neighborhood for its austere economy.
In a short time the conversation became general; and Lenora astonished Monsieur Denecker by the extent of her information and the admirable style in which she expressed herself and did the honors of the table.
But, notwithstanding her ease and freedom while conversing with the uncle, an observer could not help detecting that she was shy, if not absolutely embarrassed, when obliged to reply to some casual remark of the nephew.

Nor was Gustave more at ease than the maiden.