The old fellow picked up the half-dollar piece, and hobbling away, soon disappeared into the shadow.
“It is a pleasure to return your fan. I found it in the vestibule uninjured.”
“Thanks, Mr. Harris,” said Virginia, receiving the fan. “I shall be more careful of it hereafter.”
“Ea-ah, I guess so, eh, Uncle!” broke in Sam, striding toward them.
“Oh, oh, Sam! Really!” laughed Mr. Harris, as he looked meaningly at him. “Ah! You seem delighted.”
“I think so, eh, Uncle,” accompanied by the habitual side movement of his head. “Congratulate me on having found Miss Thorpe after a long search,” and turning to Virginia, he added, with a smile broadening his face—“you have promised to dance with me. May I indulge in the pleasure now?”
“Yes, Sam,” she replied, with an air of fatigue, “but I would rather you defer the pleasure.”
“Miss Thorpe is fatigued and Sam is too much of a gallant to deny her a little rest,” appealed Mr. Harris.
“Cert!” answered Sam, as a shade of disappointment flitted across his face. “Anything I can do to serve Miss Thorpe shall be done.”
“Thank you, Sam,” replied Virginia, relieved.