"I am sorry to say that I cannot," was the courteous reply. "I promised madame not to make any introductions to her."
"Will you take my card to her? If she is the lady I take her to be she will send word whether she wishes to see me or not."
The manager complied with his request. He soon returned.
"Madame Vanira wishes me to say that she has not the pleasure of your lordship's acquaintance, and that she is compelled to decline any introduction."
"Then it is not Leone," he said to himself, and a chill of disappointment came over him.
His heart had been beating quickly and warmly, yet he persuaded himself it was only that he was so pleased to know she was all right and safe from the frowns of the world. It was not Leone, but she was so much like Leone that he felt he must go to see her again.
"The opera to-night?" said Lady Marion, in her sweetest tones. "Why, my dear Lance, you were there three nights since."
"Yes, I know, but I thought it pleased you, Marion. We will ask my mother to go with us. It is the 'Crown Diamonds,' a very favorite opera of hers."
"Will Madame Vanira sing?" asked Lady Chandos, and her husband quietly answered:
"Yes."