"True," I reply, and then I laugh a little, and, taking higher ground, continue, "You are horrified at my ill temper, are you not? And indeed I have behaved disgracefully. After all, I don't know why I should feel bitterly towards her; it is a mere unfounded prejudice on my part. You think me wretchedly pettish?"
"I do not, indeed," very quietly. "Of course I can fully understand how utterly impossible it would be for you and Blanche Going to have a single idea in common."
"She is so clever you mean," with a small frown.
"She is such an intrigante, I mean," replies my companion, quite coolly.
"Let us go in, it is cold," I say, with a quick shiver. So we go round by the hall door, and soon again find ourselves in the ball-room. As we enter I determinately put from me all thought of 'Duke's dark, passionate face. I will be happy. I will wrench from the flying hours all they have worth taking. Why should I care, who never really loved, whether or not he finds contentment in another woman's society.
----
I am tired, and somewhat dispirited. The rooms are growing thinner. A voice at my side makes me start and turn.
"If not engaged, will you give me this?" asks 'Duke, ceremoniously.
"Certainly, if you wish it. But are you so badly off for a partner? To dance with one's wife must be—to say the least of it—insipid."
He makes no reply, but places his arm around my waist in silence. It is a waltz.