"The Old Corporal, Mr. Waverton. The Duke of Marlborough."
"You have served with him, sir?"
Colonel Boyce gave a laugh of genial condescension. "Why, yes, Mr.
Waverton, I stand as close to His Grace as most men."
After a moment of impressive silence, the Wavertons vigorously directed the conversation to the Duke of Marlborough. Colonel Boyce made no objection. In the most obliging manner he admitted them to a piquant intimacy with His Grace's manners and customs. He mingled things personal and high politics with a fascinating air of letting out secrets at every word; and, throughout, he maintained a tantalizing discretion about his own position. My lady and Mr. Waverton were more and more fascinated.
So that Miss Lambourne had good opportunity to try her maiden steel upon Harry. As soon as he came in, he withdrew himself to a cabinet of medals in a remote corner. Mr. Hadley approached the harpsichord and reached it just before it fell silent. Miss Lambourne looked up into his face.
"Yes, shall we lay our heads together?" said he.
"But I doubt mine would turn yours."
"If you'll risk it, ma'am, I will."
"La, sir, is this an offer? I protest I am all one blush."
"Then your imagination is bolder than mine, ma'am. I mean—"