Had, then, Cadurcis
again met Venetia only to find her the bride or the betrothed of
another? a mortifying situation, even an intolerable one, if his
feelings remained unchanged; and if the eventful year that had elapsed
since they parted had not replaced her image in his susceptible mind
by another more cherished, and, perhaps, less obdurate. Again, to Lady
Annabel the moment was one of great awkwardness, for the introduction
of her husband to those with whom she was recently so intimate, and
who were then aware that the name of that husband was never even
mentioned in her presence, recalled the painful past with a disturbing
vividness. Venetia, indeed, did not share these feelings fully,
but she thought it ungracious to anticipate her mother in the
announcement.
The Herberts turned with Lord Cadurcis and his cousin; they were about
to retrace their steps on the terrace, when Lady Annabel, taking
advantage of the momentary silence, and summoning all her energy, with
a pale cheek and a voice that slightly faltered, said, 'Lord Cadurcis,
allow me to present you to Mr. Herbert, my husband,' she added with
emphasis.
'Good God!' exclaimed Cadurcis, starting; and then, outstretching his
hand, he contrived to add, 'have I, indeed, the pleasure of seeing one
I have so long admired?'
'Lord Cadurcis!' exclaimed Herbert, scarcely less surprised.
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