"Don't you tremble, Sir Tilton, when you think of the wrath of the wigless Adonis?"
"Like an aspen leaf, fair belle, but never mind, I've given him a wigging."
They are now beside Lady Esmondet, and the strains of music changing from the waltz,
"That means our waltz is over, Marquis Del Castello, and I have enjoyed it thoroughly, thanks to your perfect step."
"Your own fairy step had much to do with making our waltz one I shall never forget; may I call tomorrow?"
"You may."
Trevalyon coming up at the moment, and seeing Vaura in all her lovliness, for lovely she was in cream white satin, sleeves merely a band, neck low, a circlet of gold of delicate workmanship round the throat, fastened in front with a diamond large as a hazel nut, bands of gold in same design, on perfect arms midway between shoulder and elbow; and the poor fellow hungered to have her all to himself for even a few minutes, so with forced gaiety he said:
"Now, Mademoiselle, I, as your guardian, must insist on your taking a little rest and under my protection, for, should I allow you to take it with any other, the gay gallant would have the queen of the night back amidst the revelry.
"But what am I to do, Lady Esmondet—Captain Trevalyon," she said with a sweet sense of willingness about her; "I belong to M. de Vesey for the next dance?"
"Go and rest," said Lady Esmondet; "and if your partner cannot find you it will be his loss."