Elsie made no answer. She walked slowly back to the cottage, and Trant followed. Mrs. Valliant was in the verandah, and was talking to Minnie Pryde, who, as soon as she saw Elsie, rushed to her with a torrent of congratulations. And, oh, had it been Mr. Hallett who had given her the beautiful star, and would Elsie let her see it again?
No. Elsie was sorry, but she couldn't let Minnie see the star. Elsie had become suddenly grave, and she seemed shy, and altogether, Minnie said afterwards, more like an ordinary engaged girl than one would have imagined possible in Elsie.
Elsie had a great reception that afternoon. Mrs. Jem Hallett appeared, which was a wonderful condescension, but she had learned by some occult means that Lady Waveryng was going to call also. The Waveryng advent had considerably altered Mrs. Jem Hallett's views in regard to this alliance. She was very gracious to Elsie. Of course, she, Elsie, would come and stay at Tunimba. Mrs. Valliant was included in the invitation. And how amusing it would be to have the wedding on the Luya—from the Dell, a real Bush wedding—Lord Horace would manage it so beautifully! Lord Horace was always talking about local colour, and they might have a procession of blacks, and King Tommy, of Yoolaman, at its head. What did Lady Waveryng think of that? and perhaps it might be worth Lord Waveryng's while to put off the New Zealand trip.
Everybody had gone when Frank came. Elsie was grateful to him for the tact which had kept him away. She was grateful, too, for his calm, matter-of-fact way of taking the situation. There were no lover's raptures. He made no claims. It was with bashful humility that he asked to be allowed to put a ring on her finger.
"Everyone will wonder why you haven't an engagement ring," he said, and took it from its case. "I thought you'd like diamonds best," he added, awkwardly. The ring was magnificent. Elsie could hardly have believed that Leichardt's Town could furnish forth anything so perfect.
