The Duchess seemed satisfied with the explanation.
“Dear Beau, what do the cavaliers see in that horrid creature?” archly asked the Duchess, contemptuous of this liking of the stronger sex.
“Alack-a-day, we men, you know,” replied Nell, boastfully, “well–the best of us make mistakes in women.”
“Are you mistaken?” questioned Portsmouth, coyly.
“What?” laughed Nell, in high amusement. “I love Nelly? Nay, Duchess,” and her voice grew tender, “I adore but one!”
“And she?” asked the hostess, encouraging the youth’s apparently awakening passion.
“How can you ask?” said Nell, with a deep sigh, looking adoringly into Portsmouth’s eyes and almost embracing her.
“Do you not fear?” inquired Portsmouth, well pleased.
“Fear what?” questioned Nell.
“My wrath,” said Portsmouth.