Those eyes were a trifle too honest,
and, like the deep clear water they resembled, apt to throw up shadows
of the passing thoughts above.
"False and cold and heartless," thought Beatrice. "I wonder how a man
like that could marry her; and how much he loves her."
Thus the two women took each other's measure at a glance, each finding
the other wanting by her standard. Nor did they ever change that hastily
formed judgment.
It was all done in a few seconds--in that hesitating moment before the
words we summon answer on our lips. The next, Lady Honoria was sweeping
towards her with outstretched hand, and her most gracious smile.
"Miss Granger," she said, "I owe you a debt I never can repay--my dear
husband's life. I have heard all about how you saved him; it is the most
wonderful thing--Grace Darling born again. I can't think how you could
do it. I wish I were half as brave and strong."
"Please don't, Lady Honoria," said Beatrice. "I am so tired of being
thanked for doing nothing, except what it was my duty to do. If I had
let Mr. Bingham go while I had the strength to hold on to him I should
have felt like a murderess to-day.
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