He could not see her face . Did she care , after all ? Was he mistaken ? When she spoke her voice was perfectly calm . `` Thank you , it is very kind of you to tell me about her . I suppose she is very beautiful . '' `` Yes , here is her picture . You can judge for yourself . '' Helen took the portrait from his hand and looked at it steadily . It was a miniature painted on ivory , and the face looking out from it was certainly lovely . `` It is no wonder you love her , '' said the girl in a low tone as she handed it back . `` It must be strange to be so beautiful as that . '' Reeves picked up his Tennyson . `` Shall I read you something ? What will you have ? '' `` Read ` Elaine , ' please . I want to hear that once more . '' Reeves felt a sudden dislike to her choice . `` Would n't you prefer something else ? '' he asked , hurriedly turning over the leaves . ''
` XXXXX ' is rather sad .
Elaine Helen Reeves Tennyson choice face ivory leaves portrait tone