"That remains to be seen. I have a strong impression that he does not."
"Why?" asked Ferdinand.
"He does so many other things well."
"That's no reason," said Mrs. Mason. "Do you dance, Ferdinand?"
Ferdinand shook his head.
"I like a man to dance," said Caroline, "and yet I like him not to dance."
"That's a very womanish speech, my dear," said Mrs. Mason.
"I suppose it is. It's inspired by my white gloves and my low dress, and my roses. When once a woman gets on such things, Colonel Mason, expect nothing but nonsense.—Aunt Maria," the young lady continued, "will you button my glove?"
"Let me do it," said Ferdinand. "Your aunt has her gloves on."
"Thank you." And Miss Hofmann extended a long, white arm, and drew back with her other hand the bracelet from her wrist. Her glove had three buttons, and Mason performed the operation with great deliberation and neatness.