Mr Gwynne began his game half asleep; Rowland began his in a very bad temper.

The former was glad of anything that could keep him awake, the latter was disgusted at having been made the victim of Miss Gwynne's anxiety to preserve her father from falling fast asleep in the midst of his guests.

But, by degrees, the one was thoroughly aroused, and the other forgot his annoyance.

Both soon ignored the presence of any human being save himself and his opponent.
Music and talking sounded on all sides, but they made no impression on the chess-players.

Lady Mary performed all her most brilliant airs and variations in vain, as far as Mr Gwynne was concerned; and Rowland was even unconscious that Netta had resolutely played through all the small pieces she had learnt at school at the particular request of Sir Hugh Pryse.
'That game will never finish,' at last exclaimed Lady Mary, approaching Mr Gwynne.