Frank ascended the stairs, learned that he could obtain admission for fifty cents, paid the money and entered the hall.
A waltz was in progress, and the floor was covered with gliding, whirling couples. As Frank had expected, the patrons of the dance were of the lower order of society, although there seemed to be some semirespectable people on the floor.
Merry looked around for the girl whom he sought, and, to his intense satisfaction, it was not long before he discovered her. She was waltzing with a tall, red-headed young man, who looked like a would-be tough.
Frank kept watch of her, and when the waltz was over he saw her disappear with her partner into an adjoining room.
Merry followed.
He found this room was where “refreshments” were served. In this case the “refreshments” seemed to consist mainly of beer, which the thirsty couples consumed at little tables.
Daisy and her partner were seated at a table, and Frank walked past, hoping she would notice him. She did, and instantly she uttered an exclamation of surprise.
“Frank Merriwell!” she cried, starting up. “What are you doing here?”
“Miss Blaney,” said Frank, stopping and lifting his hat in the most respectful manner, fully aware that the red-headed youth was glaring at him in a savage manner. “I was looking for you.”
“For me?” gasped the girl, in still greater astonishment. “Now you are chucking a jolly at me!”