"You're here!" he exclaimed. "How good of you to come. I have thought about you ever since this morning. There is a valse beginning. Will you valse it with me?"
"Thank you," said Gwendolen shyly.
Lord Beltravers, who valsed divinely, put his arm round her waist and led her into the circle of dancers.
CHAPTER III
AFFIANCED
The ball was at its height. Gwendolen, who had been in to supper eight times, placed her hand timidly on the arm of Lord Beltravers, who had just begged a polka of her.
"Let us sit this out," she said. "Not here—in the garden."
"Yes," said Lord Beltravers gravely. "Let us go. I have something to say to you."
Offering her his arm, he led her down the great terrace which ran along the back of the house.