"But I was to meet Mrs. Wilson," he said doubtfully to the footman who opened the carriage door.
"Mrs. Wilson is here, sir," was the answer. "She said to carry you here. James is inside to tell you what to do."
A footman was indeed within, waiting for him.
"Mrs. Wilson says will you please come to her, sir," the man said, and led the way upstairs.
The sound of gay music, growing louder as he advanced, filled Wynne's ears. He began to feel disquieted, and once half halted.
"Are you sure there is no mistake?" he asked.
"Oh, no mistake at all, sir," his guide answered. "Mrs. Wilson has arranged everything. Leave your hat and cloak here, sir, if you please."
Maurice mechanically did as requested, but as he threw off his outer garment the opening of a door let in a burst of music which seemed so close at hand that he was startled. He was in what was evidently a coat-room, the attendant of which regarded him with open curiosity; and he realized suddenly that he must be near a ball-room.
"Where am I?" he demanded.
"It's the ball, sir, that they has to end the season before Lent. It's
Lent to-morrow, sir, as I thought you'd know."