She was daintily pretty, quick of comprehension, and, in spite of her black attire, which at times gave her a forlorn air that made him compassionate, altogether charming.

It was, however, unfortunate that he could not marry a poor wife, and he knew nothing about Sylvia's means.

To do him justice, he had shrunk from any attempt to obtain information on this point; but he felt that it would have to be made before things went too far.

His thoughts were interrupted by Ethel West, who strolled along the terrace and stopped close at hand.
"I didn't expect to find you wrapped in contemplation," she remarked.
"As a matter of fact, I've been talking." "To Mrs.Marston?
She's generally considered entertaining." Bland looked at her with a smile.

He liked Ethel West.