"I needn't say how glad I am to see you, Falconer," he said, "or how
delighted the countess and the rest of them will be. You must be
prepared for a little hero worship, I'm afraid, for the countess has
been diligent in spreading the story of your pluck."
As he lovingly took off Nell's shawl, he whispered: "Dearest, how sweet and beautiful you look! If you knew how proud I
am--how proud and happy!"
Then he led them into the drawing-room. A number of guests had already
arrived, and as the countess came forward and kissed Nell, they looked
at her with a keen curiosity, though it was politely veiled.
Nell was a little pale as the countess introduced her to one after
another of the county people; but Drake stood near her; and everybody,
prepossessed by her youth, and the girlish dignity and modesty which
characterized her, was very kind and pleasant; and soon the threatened
fit of shyness passed off, and she felt at her ease.
The room, large as it was, got rather crowded. Guests were still
arriving. Some of the women were magnificently dressed in honor of the
occasion, but Nell's simple frock distinguished her, as the plain
evening dress of the American ambassador is said to distinguish him
among the rich uniforms and glittering orders of the queen's levee; and
the women recognized and approved her good taste in appearing so simply
dressed.
"She is sweetly pretty," murmured the local duchess to Lady Northgate.
"I don't wonder at Lord Angleford's losing his heart. Half the men in
the room would fall in love with her if she were free. And I like that
quiet, reticent manner of hers; not a bit shy, but dignified and yet
girlish. Yes, Lord Angleford is to be congratulated."
"So he would be if she were not half so pretty," said Lady Northgate;
"for he is evidently too happy for words. See how he looks at her!"
"Who is that bright-looking young fellow?" asked the duchess, putting up
her pince-nez at Dick.
"That is her brother. Isn't he like her? They are devoted to each other;
and that is Mr. Falconer, the great violinist. Of course, you've heard
the story----"
"Oh, dear, yes," said the duchess. "And I want to congratulate him. I
wish you'd bring the boy to me, dear."
Lady Northgate went after him, but at that moment a young lady with
laughing eyes came into the room, and Dick started and actually blushed.