An act
had just terminated and he was at liberty to pursue his quest. After
scanning two or three tiers of boxes he perceived in one of the
largest of these receptacles a lady whom he easily recognized. Miss
Archer was seated facing the stage and partly screened by the
curtain of the box; and beside her, leaning back in his chair, was Mr.
Gilbert Osmond. They appeared to have the place to themselves, and
Warburton supposed their companions had taken advantage of the
recess to enjoy the relative coolness of the lobby. He stood a while
with his eyes on the interesting pair; he asked himself if he should
go up and interrupt the harmony. At last he judged that Isabel had
seen him, and this accident determined him. There should be no
marked holding off. He took his way to the upper regions and on the
staircase met Ralph Touchett slowly descending, his hat at the
inclination of ennui and his hands where they usually were.
"I saw you below a moment since and was going down to you. I feel
lonely and want company," was Ralph's greeting.
"You've some that's very good which you've yet deserted."
"Do you mean my cousin? Oh, she has a visitor and doesn't want me.
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