But, to my vexation, I discovered that my father had asked Mr.Clerke to come up after dinner.

"It's his own fault if I don't get another chance of speaking," thought I.But, as I strolled sullenly on the terrace (without Maria) a note arrived from the Rector to say that he was called away to see a sick man.

I dashed into the drawing-room, gave the letter to my father, and seeing Maria was not there, I went on into the conservatory.
There are moments when even plain people look handsome.

Notably when self-consciousness is quite absent, and some absorbing thought gives sentiment to the face, and grace and power to the figure.

It was so at this moment with Maria, who stood gazing before her, the light from above falling artistically on her glossy hair and tall, elegant figure.