Her face brightened faintly.

That momentary expression of relief told him how truly he would be befriending her if he consented to remain in the room.

A position of retirement was offered to him by a recess formed by the central bay-window of the library.

If he occupied this place, they could see or not see that he was present, as their own inclinations might decide them.
"I will stay with you, Horace, as long as you wish me to be here." Having answered in those terms, he stopped as he passed Mercy, on his way to the window.

His quick and kindly insight told him that he might still be of some service to her.