"Yes, god-mother mine, and dancing with vigour and a sublime indifference to time that was amusing."
"They exchanged partners with another Quakerish looking couple, and have been in the heat of the fight, ever since," said gay Mrs. Wingfield.
"'Merrily danced the Quaker's wife, merrily danced the Quaker,'" sang
Vaura.
Here a Spanish noble came up, and with a courtly bow, reminded Vaura that this was his waltz, and in animated chit-chat, they left the room.
"A handsome couple," said Mrs. Wingfield; "and I noticed the Spaniard has had two dances with la belle." News, not too utterly delightful to Trevalyon and Sir Tilton.
"The Marquis admires Miss Vernon, so mother says; and no man can find him at fault," said Eau Clair, rising, and leaving the little group.
"Would you, ladies, like to go to the ball-room?" asked Lionel, anxious to be near Vaura.
"Thank you, yes," answered Lady Esmondet, divining his motive.
"And will you take pity on me, and a risk on my waltzing powers?" asked Sir Tilton of Mrs. Wingfield.
"I would not risk anything so important as a waltz, Sir Tilton; but as I have already tested your capabilities as a dancer away I go on your protecting arms."