eyes were of the deepest, most lustrous hue of grey, almost as dark
as the pupils, and with the softness of long dark eyelashes--beautiful
eyes, full of light and expression--and as she moved towards
the table, there was a finish and delicacy about the whole form
and movements, that made her a most pleasing object.

But Albinia could not improve her acquaintance, for in flowed another
party of visitors, and Madame curtsied herself out again, Albinia
volunteering that she would soon come to see her, and being answered,
'You will do me too much honour.'

Another afternoon devoured by visitors! Every one seemed to have
come except the persons who would have been most welcome, Mr.
Dusautoy, and Winifred's friends, the Nugents.

When, at four o'clock, she had shaken hands with the last guest, she
gave a hearty yawn, jumped up and shook herself, as she exclaimed,
'There! There! that is done! I wonder whether your papa would come
out now?'

'He is in his study,' said the girls.

Albinia thought of knocking and calling at the door, but somehow it
seemed impossible, and she decided on promenading past his window to
show that she was ready for him. But alas! those evergreens! She
could not see in, and probably he could not see out.

'Ha!' cried Lucy, as they pursued their walk into the kitchen garden,
'here are some asparagus coming up. Grandmamma always has our first
asparagus.'