"You were sensibly occupied, and I forgive you," returned Helen. "I know I danced more than I have done for years, and yet only managed to have two waltzes with my husband."
"I like Lieutenant Manning," returned Maud. "I had a polka with him, and his chivalry took me, for he stopped before our dance was over to escort old Mrs. Tindall across the room. Most young men would have let the lady look after herself."
"I knew what I was doing when I married Harold," said Helen with glowing face. "You see I think so much of my husband that I am willing to travel to the ends of the earth with him."
"I would have to love a man like that or I would never marry," said Maud.
"You'll find him some day, if you have not already. And what about Penetanguishene? Do you still desire to be one of our party?"
"Yes and no," was the girl's reply, her mouth assuming for the moment a set expression. "I'm afraid I said too much last night. Much as I would like to go I find it will be impossible. So there is no use even thinking about it."
"Perhaps later when our fort is built and the war is over, you will come."
"Possibly," and her eyes melted into a dreamy expression. "Let me thank you for the suggestion. If I can I will."
"It is probably better so," said Helen, puzzled at such a speedy change of attitude.
At this moment Mrs. Mason entered the room.