Accordingly,
though it cost him an effort, he held back. As the Conde de Gondomar
appeared, Sir Thomas Lake arose, and made him a profound salutation,
which was returned with equal ceremony by the Spanish Ambassador. The
latter, however, did not take a seat, but remained standing with Lord
Roos, whose presence was acknowledged by a cold and distant bow from his
father-in-law. The young nobleman did not appear in the slightest degree
disconcerted by the reception he met with, or apprehensive of the result
of the investigation. He jested apart with De Gondomar; and both he and
the Spanish Ambassador appeared greatly amused by Gillian's
embarrassment. Behind him stood his servant Diego.
"You are handmaiden to the Countess of Exeter, I presume?" demanded Lady
Lake of the damsel.
"I am, my lady," she answered.
"The girl does not look as if the imputations cast upon her character
can be true," observed Sir Thomas Lake.
As this was said, poor Gillian became suffused with blushes, and hung
her head.
"Before I put any further questions to her," remarked Lady Lake, "I
will ask Lord Roos if he still persists in affirming that it was this
damsel who visited him last night?"
Dick Taverner looked as if his fate depended upon the response the young
nobleman might make to the inquiry.
"I must decline to answer your ladyship's question," returned Lord Roos.
"Why cannot he speak out?" muttered Dick. "This uncertainty is worse
than anything.
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