“But,” argued the Colonel, “Mr. Barclugh has seen the jaded life of rouge and power and effete ennui in Paris and this young, beautiful and surprising belle of our Colonies appeals to him.”
“Oh, Colonel, you must be in love yourself,” said Mrs. Arnold archly; “men are such untutored creatures.” She laughed heartily.
“Salut de la Court!” called Comte de Noailles, the leader.
The dancers began the merry round which wound up with Mrs. Arnold being in the promenade with Roderick Barclugh, and Colonel Hamilton with Mollie Greydon.
“You have a fine partner, Miss Greydon,” remarked Hamilton.
“Really, do you think so?” asked Mollie.
“All the ladies are in ecstacies over him. It is a new face and a title that attract.”
“You misunderstand me then,” said Mollie.
“But you are the exception that proves the rule,” enjoined the Colonel, who was handsome in his gay uniform.
“Are men the infallible judges?” parried Mollie.