Their demeanour was so noble, their
stories so terse and pretty, their converse of such elegant and pure
wording, she relaxed and fell into their mood and told what few
convent stories she could boast. Their Graces were charmed by
her beauty, her sweet resonant voice and the simple and innocent
narratives, and not a little pleased by the result of their diplomacy.
* * * * *
When Mistress Penwick had gone from the grand salon the evening
before, Lord Cedric was not long in discovering her absence; for his
eyes and thoughts ever sought her. He had been greatly stirred by some
unknown thing, perhaps that we call premonition ('tis God's own gift,
if we would but heed its warning), but the game being well under way
and Constance calling his attention to an immediate and imperative
move, he was dissuaded from his inclination to arise and inquire of
the maid's absence. It was not for long, however, either the game or
his kinswoman's cunning could hold his Lordship from seeking her.
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