I bowed; she waited unmoved until the gentleman said to Darrell, "Pray present me." "This, madame," said Darrell, in whose voice there was a ring of excitement and tremulous agitation, "is M.de Perrencourt, who has the honour of serving Her Royal Highness the Duchess.

This lady, sir, is Mistress Barbara Quinton, maid of honour to the Duchess of York, and now in attendance on Madame." Barbara made a curtsey, M.de Perrencourt bowed.

His eyes were fixed on her face; he studied her openly and fearlessly, yet the regard was difficult to resent, it was so calm, assured, and dignified.

It seemed beyond challenge, if not beyond reproach.

I stood by in silence, angry at a scrutiny so prolonged, but without title to interfere.
"I trust, madame, that we shall be better acquainted," he said at last, and with a lingering look at her face passed on.