She was a new being, but for
the present could bear herself in the old way. Before leaving her
room, she stood before the looking-glass, and smiled. Oh yes, it
would do!
Arnold Jacks was in the state of mind which exhibited him at his
very best. An air of discreet triumph sat well on this elegant
Englishman; it prompted him to continuous discourse, which did not
lack its touch of brilliancy; his features had an uncommon
animation, and his slender, well-knit figure--of course clad with
perfect seaside propriety--appeared to gain an inch, so gallantly
he held himself. He walked the cliffs like one on guard over his
country. Without for a moment becoming ridiculous, Arnold, with his
first-rate English breeding, could carry off a great deal of radiant
self-consciousness.
Side by side, he and Irene looked very well; there was suitability
of stature, harmony of years. Arnold's clean-cut visage, manly yet
refined, did no discredit to the choice of a girl even so striking
in countenance as Irene. They drew the eyes of passers-by. Conscious
of this, Irene now and then flinched imperceptibly; but her smile
held good, and its happiness flattered the happy man.
Eustace Derwent departed in a day or two, having an invitation to
join friends in Scotland. He had vastly enjoyed the privilege of
listening to Arnold's talk. Indeed to his sister's amusement, he
plainly sought to model himself on Mr.
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