Page:Neith Boyce--The bond.djvu/129

Rh "Come in," but apparently was not heard. After a moment the knock was repeated, sharply, and she went to open the door impatiently. A woman stood there, with a long, light cloak over her dress, and a white veil tied over a small hat, but not covering her face.

"Isn't Mr. Ransome here?" she asked in a quick, decided voice, inclining her head slightly.

"No. He may be back in half an hour. Won't you come in?"

"Just a minute. I don't think I'll wait." She walked in, and said with a smile: "You're Mrs. Ransome. I know you from your pictures here, and perhaps you know me?"

"Yes," said Teresa, also smiling, as she shut the door.

"You've seen my portrait—how do you like it?"

She was looking about for the picture as she spoke. Teresa looked at her earnestly. The white veil, drawn across the brow and tied under the chin, framed her face like a nun's garb. Her dark eyes were piercing and impatient under their straight-scored brows. Her complexion suffered from the white frame.

"I thought it very interesting—before I had seen you," said Teresa slowly.

"Ah, you can't tell with this thing on—wait." She untied the veil, and took off her hat, showing black hair, thick about her low forehead, and