"I believed that we had settled that."
"I am not making any declaration of love, madame," he said.
"I am listening." This prelude did not strike her favorably.
"There has been a tremendous wonder, as I understand, about this ball."
"In what way?" guardedly.
"In regard to the strange manner in which the invitations were issued."
"Have you found out who did it?" she demanded.
"Yes." The light in his eyes was feverish despite the pallor of his face.
"Who was it?" fiercely. Oh, but she would have revenge for this miserable jest!
"I issued those invitations—with a definite purpose."