Tom led his captive away, but he was dreadfully frightened at the success of his own manoeuvre.
"Where is Bessie?" asked Elsie, impatiently, as they walked down the ball-room.
"This way," faltered Tom; "we shall find her in a moment."
Elsie never deigned him another word; she was very angry, as she could be with any thing or anybody that marred her selfish enjoyment, and Tom walked on towards one of the parlors which he knew was empty, feeling like a man about to charge a battery single handed, but determined to persevere nevertheless.
CHAPTER XII.
TOM MAKES A DECLARATION.
Tom led his captive into the parlor. Elsie looked about in surprise—there was not a soul visible.
"Are you crazy, Tom Fuller?" cried she; "Bessie is not here."
"She shall be here in a minute," stammered Tom; "just wait, please."