The conservatory is sufficiently dark to disguise the ravages that dissipation has made upon his handsome features.

He can see that Perpetua is regarding him earnestly, and with evident interest.

Already he regards his cause as won.

It is plain that the girl is attracted by his face, as indeed she is! She is at this moment asking herself, who is it he is like?
"You were saying ?" says she dreamily.
"That the charm you possess, though of no value in the eyes of your guardian, is, to _me_, indescribably attractive.

In fact--I----" A second pause, meant to be even more effective.
Perpetua turns her gaze more directly upon him.