And on a sudden the full lights flashed on again, and a sigh of relief burst from every heart and many lips. The black curtain had fallen. Rosalie alone remained of the weird scene, descending the spiral staircase. A little thing will often bring about reaction, and from being shunned by many, she from this opportune arrival gained a fair share of popularity.
“Where have you been?” a dozen voices cried, glad to make sound again.
“Trying to find a partner,” cried she, and laughed; and others laughed as well, the search had been so long and unsuccessful.
“Supper is finished.”
There was no lack of those to offer attention now, and along with this came the general bustle of those leaving the supper-table.
But by the side of Mr. Barringcourt stood the girl who, from a mixture of youthful spirits and curiosity, had asked the first the curtain might be moved.
“I am glad I had finished my supper,” said she, with an attempt at laughing still. “I’m sure I could never eat anything in here again.”
“It is fortunate refreshments are served upstairs,” he answered. “You would not let so small a thing interfere with your evening’s pleasure?”
Reassured somewhat by his tone, she said:
“After all, it was only an idol, was it?”