Come and look at
them--they are on our way."
He led her to inspect them. They proved to be two Gainsboroughs and a
Raeburn, representing ancestors on Lady Lucy's side. Mr. Ferrier's talk
of them showed his intimate knowledge both of Varleys and Marshams, the
knowledge rather of a kinsman than a friend. Diana perceived, indeed,
how great must be the affection, the intimacy, between him and them.
Meanwhile, as the man of fifty and the slender girl in black passed
before him, on their way to examine the pictures, Sir James Chide,
casually looking up, was apparently struck by some rapid and powerful
impression. It arrested the hand playing with the dog; it held and
transformed the whole man. His eyes, open as though in astonishment or
pain, followed every movement of Diana, scrutinized every look and
gesture. His face had flushed slightly--his lips were parted. He had the
aspect of one trying eagerly, passionately, to follow up some clew that
would not unwind itself; and every now and then he bent
forward--listening--trying to catch her voice.
Presently the inspection was over. Diana turned and beckoned to Mrs.
Colwood. The two ladies went toward the drawing-room, Mr.
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