My eyes rested upon her hands, white, slender, ringless.

They were hands of refinement, and my gaze, fascinated by the swiftly recurring memory of other days, arose slowly to a contemplation of her face.

I had seen it heretofore merely in shadow, scarcely with intelligent observation, but now, beneath the full glare of electric light, its revealment awoke me to eager interest.

It was a womanly face, strong, true, filled with character, not so apt, perhaps, to be considered pretty, as lovable--a face to awaken confidence, and trust; a low, broad forehead, shadowed still by the wide-brimmed hat, and the flossy brown hair; the skin clear, the cheeks rounded, and slightly flushed by excitement; the lips full and finely arched; the chin firm and smooth.

Her greatest claim to beauty was the eyes, now securely veiled behind long, downcast lashes.