This she learned from Victor, whom she met in the hall, and who
added, that he never saw his master appear quite so dissatisfied
as when told they were in the library, and would probably pass the
night. Edith readily guessed the cause of his disquiet, and
impatiently stamped her little foot upon the marble floor, for she
knew their presence would necessarily defer the evil hour, and she
could not live much longer in her present state of excitement.

"I was just coming to your room," said Victor, "to see if you were
able to appear in the parlor. Three men who have not met in years
are stupid company for each other; and then Mr. Harrington wants
to show you off I dare say. Pity the widow wasn't here."

Victor spoke sarcastically, but Edith merely replied,

"Tell your master I will come in a few minutes."

Then, with a half feeling of relief, she ran back to her room,
bathing her eyes afresh, and succeeding in removing the redness to
such an extent, that by lamplight no one would suspect she had
been crying. Her headache was gone, and with spirits somewhat
elated, she started again for the parlor where she succeeded in
entertaining Richard's guests entirely to his satisfaction.

It was growing late, and the clock was striking eleven when at
last Richard summoned Victor, bidding him show the gentleman to
their rooms. As they were leaving the parlor Edith came to
Richard's side and in a whisper so low that no one heard her, save
himself, said to him,