"Hanged if she don't live on the same street!"
A strange thought occurred. It was soon confirmed. They stopped in front of Buttons's own lodgings. A light gleamed over the door. Another flashed into the soul of Buttons. That face, dimpled, smiling, bewitching; flashing, sparking eyes; little mouth with its rosy lips!
"_Delores_!"
"Blessed Saints and Holy Virgin! Is it possible that you never suspected?"
"Never. How could I when I thought you were dressed like a dragoon?"
"And you never passed so happy an evening; and never had so fascinating and charming a partner; and you never heard such a voice of music as mine; and you can never forget me through all life; and you never can hope to find any one equal to me!" said Dolores, in her usual laughing volubility.
"Never!" cried Buttons.
"Oh dear! I think you must love me very much."
And a merry peal of laughter rang up the stairs as Dolores, evading Buttons's arm, which that young man had tried to pass about her waist, dashed away into the darkness and out of sight.