A curious disturbance seemed to have passed into his blood.

He felt his eyes brighten, and his breath come a little quicker, as he unconsciously created in his imagination the living presentment of the girl whose picture he was still holding.

Tall she was, and slim, with a soft, white throat, and long, graceful neck; eyes rather darker than her complexion warranted, a little narrow, but bright as stars--a mouth with the divine lines of humor and understanding.

It was only a picture, but a realization of the living image seemed to be creeping in upon him.

He made the excuse of seeking a better light, and moved across to a distant lamp.