Page:Between Two Loves.djvu/294

Rh her notice the line blue and crimson damasks of which the furnishings of the best rooms were composed, the bright chintzes of the others, the soft thick carpets and rugs, the ruffled pillow-shams and the dressed toilet-tables, and all these things filled Nelly's young heart with astonishment and longing.

But she forgot even these splendors when she was introduced to the parlor, with its fine lace curtains and blue velvet upholstery. And the table was set with gilded china, and fine damask, and real silver forks, and for the first time Nelly realized how much better veal pies and raspberry tarts and cheese-cakes may taste with such accessories. It was a wonderful meal to her. She was yet young enough to be delightfully hungry, and honest enough to enjoy with child-like gusto the good things her lover had provided.

After tea was over, Ben sat down for his smoke, and while the housekeeper removed the china, and "tidied-up" after the little feast, Nelly sat opposite him, in the rocking-chair, her curly brown head lying comfortably and coquettishly among the blue satin trimmings. Ben thought it the very prettiest object he had 19