Scarce ten minutes had elapsed, after his departure, when Florence rose and said, "Now I am going."
"Why, you just promised to remain all night," said Rufus, in a tone of undisguised disappointment.
"No," said she; "I made no promise, and I am going."
"Then I'll go with you," returned Rufus, seizing his hat.
"No," said Col. Malcome, suddenly entering the apartment. "With Miss Howard's consent, I'll be her escort home to-night."
Florence said she should be honored by his company. So bidding good-night to Edith and Rufus, she took his proffered arm and descended to the street.
"How have you enjoyed the ball to-night?" inquired he, as they walked on together.
"Very well," answered she, briefly.
"This young Lindenwood, that burrows with the strange chap they call the 'Hermit of the Cedars;' you are acquainted with him, I believe."
"He has attended school at the seminary, since I commenced to go," answered Florence, as calmly as she was able.