Her glance met Mr.Caryll's across the intervening space.

Instantly he swept off his hat, and bowed profoundly.
The action drew attention to himself.

All eyes were focussed upon him, and between many a pair there was a frown for one who should dare thus to run counter to the general attitude.
But there was more to follow.

The Lady Mary accepted Mr.Caryll's salutation of Hortensia as a signal.

She led the way promptly, and the little band swept forward, straight for its goal, raked by the volleys from a thousand eyes, under which the Lady Mary already began to giggle excitedly.
Thus they reached the countess, the countess standing very rigid in her amazement, to receive them.
"I hope I see your ladyship well," said Lady Mary.
"I hope your ladyship does," answered the countess tartly.
Mistress Winthrop's eyes were lowered; her cheeks were scarlet.