The work had been supervised by Dr. Derwent, who thought that his
sister and his niece might thus be tempted to live the orderly life
so desirable in their unfortunate circumstances. When Piers entered,
Mrs. Hannaford sat alone in the drawing room; she still had the look
of an invalid, but wore a gown which showed to advantage the lines
of her figure. Otway had been told not to dress, and it caused him
some surprise to see his hostess adorned as if for an occasion of
ceremony. Her hair was done in a new way, which changed the wonted
character of her face, so that she looked younger. A bunch of pale
flowers rested against her bosom, and breathed delicate perfume
about her.
"It was discussed," she said, in a low, intimate voice, "whether we
should settle in London or abroad. But we didn't like to go away.
Our only real friends are in England, and we must hope to make more.
Olga is so good, now that she sees that I really need her. She has
been so kind and sweet during my illness."
Whilst they were talking, Miss Hannaford silently made her entrance.
Piers turned his head, and felt a shock of surprise. Not till now
had he seen Olga at her best; he had never imagined her so handsome;
it was a wonderful illustration of the effect of apparel. She, too,
had reformed the fashion of her hair, and its tawny abundance was
much more effective than in the old careless style.
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