It could be nothing in the least soothing--she had warrant for this, and the conviction doubtless showed in the cloud on her brow.

For the rest, however, all clearness reigned in her; she had put away her mourning and she walked in no small shimmering splendour.

She only, felt older--ever so much, and as if she were "worth more" for it, like some curious piece in an antiquary's collection.

She was not at any rate left indefinitely to her apprehensions, for a servant at last stood before her with a card on his tray.

"Let the gentleman come in," she said, and continued to gaze out of the window after the footman had retired.