The curtain still held slightly back by her hand permitted the light from within to reflect over her figure, revealing in softened outline the beauty of her features, the flossy brightness of her hair.

She was in evening dress, a light shawl draping her shoulders.

An instant she paused in uncertainty, striving to distinguish his face; then stepped impulsively forward, and held out her hands.
"I have kept you waiting, but you must forgive that, as I came as soon as I could manufacture an excuse.

Won't you even shake hands with me ?" "Is it necessary ?" he asked, almost wearily.

"You have come to me for some purpose surely, but it can hardly be friendship." "Why should you say that ?" reproachfully.