He waved to the door, and Carstares, turning, beheld Diana.
She stood framed by the dark wood, gowned in amber silk, with old lace falling from her elbows and over the bosom of her dress. Her hair was dark as night, with little tendrils curling over her broad, white brow. One rolling curl fell over her shoulder, the rest were gathered up under a small lace cap, which was secured by means of a riband passed beneath her chin.
Jack gazed, and gazed again, and in her turn Diana studied him with wide brown eyes of almost childlike innocence. Then her lids fluttered and curling lashes veiled the glorious depths, as a slow blush mounted to her cheeks.
My lord recovered his manners and made his most approved leg as her father presented him.
"--and, Mr. Carr, this is my daughter, Diana."
"I am delighted to make Miss Beauleigh's acquaintance," said John, and raised her hand to his lips.
The delicate, tapering fingers trembled a little in his hold, and tremulous lips parted in the shyest and most adorable smile that he had ever seen.
"Indeed, sir, we are already acquainted. I am not like to forget my rescuer."
"I am happy to think that I was able to be of some service to you, mademoiselle. Believe me, it was an honour to fight in your cause." His eyes were on the fascinating dimple that played about her mouth.
"'Tis very kind of you to say so, sir. I fear we greatly incommoded you--and--" She made a gesture towards his sling.
"That, mademoiselle, is less than nothing. All the obligation is on my side."
"Now that will do! I never heard such a foolish set of compliments! You are looking tired, Mr. Carr; come into the garden and rest."
Salter stepped forward, but Diana stayed him with uplifted finger.
"If Mr. Carr will accept my arm?" she hazarded.
"Oh, tut-tut!" cried Miss Betty. "Have done dilly-dallying! Take him out, Di!"
Mr. Beauleigh had already disappeared. His world lay in his library, and he was never far from it for any length of time. Now he had seized the moment when his sister was not looking to withdraw quietly, and, when she turned round, she was only in time to see the library door close softly.
"Your papa has gone again," she remarked to her niece. "What a trying man he is, to be sure!"