For Marsham's staying powers, naturally, were the greater. He summoned
finally all his nerve and all his knowledge. The air of the
carpet-knight with which he had opened battle disappeared; he fought
seriously and for victory. And suddenly Diana laughed--a little
hysterically--and gave in. He had carried her into regions of history
and politics where she could not follow. She dropped her head in her
hands a moment--then fell back in her chair--silenced--her beautiful
passionate eyes fixed on Marsham, as his were on her.
"Brava! Brava!" cried Mr. Ferrier, clapping his hands. The room joined
in laughter and applause.
* * * * *
A few minutes later the ladies streamed out into the hall on their way
to bed. Marsham came to light a candle for Diana.
"Do you forgive me?" he said, as he gave it to her.
The tone was gay and apologetic.
She laughed unsteadily, without reply.
"When will you take your revenge?"
She shook her head, touched his hand for "good-night," and went
up-stairs.
As Diana reached her room she drew Mrs. Colwood in with her--but not, it
seemed, for purposes of conversation.
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