They looked at each other much as if they had unexpectedly met at the altar; but after a momentary start Paula did not flinch from the position into which hurt pride had betrayed her. De Stancy bowed gracefully, and she merely walked to the furthest window, whither he followed her.
'I am eternally grateful to you for avowing that I have won favour in your sight at last,' he whispered.
She acknowledged the remark with a somewhat reserved bearing. 'Really I don't deserve your gratitude,' she said. 'I did not know you were there.'
'I know you did not--that's why the avowal is so sweet to me. Can I take you at your word?'
'Yes, I suppose.'
'Then your preference is the greatest honour that has ever fallen to my lot. It is enough: you accept me?'
'As a lover on probation--no more.'
The conversation being carried on in low tones, Paula's uncle and aunt took it as a hint that their presence could be spared, and severally left the room--the former gladly, the latter with some vexation. Charlotte De Stancy followed.
'And to what am I indebted for this happy change?' inquired De Stancy, as soon as they were alone.
'You shouldn't look a gift-horse in the mouth,' she replied brusquely, and with tears in her eyes for one gone.
'You mistake my motive. I am like a reprieved criminal, and can scarcely believe the news.'
'You shouldn't say that to me, or I shall begin to think I have been too kind,' she answered, some of the archness of her manner returning. 'Now, I know what you mean to say in answer; but I don't want to hear more at present; and whatever you do, don't fall into the mistake of supposing I have accepted you in any other sense than the way I say. If you don't like such a limitation you can go away. I dare say I shall get over it.'
'Go away! Could I go away?--But you are beginning to tease, and will soon punish me severely; so I will make my escape while all is well. It would be presumptuous to expect more in one day.'
'It would indeed,' said Paula, with her eyes on a bunch of flowers.