"He deserved the mortification," she said. "I shall remember it if he shows any of his arrogance at the party."
"Fletcher rather admires Maud," said Oscar, after his sister had gone out of the room; "but the favor isn't reciprocated. If he undertakes to say anything to her against you, she will take him down, depend upon it."
Saturday evening came, and Harry, with Oscar and his sister, started for the party. Our hero, having confessed his inability to dance, had been diligently instructed in the Lancers by Oscar, so that he felt some confidence in being able to get through without any serious blunder.
"Of course you must dance, Harry," he said. "You don't want to be a wall-flower."
"I may have to be," said Harry. "I shall know none of the young ladies except your sister."
"Maud will dance the first Lancers with you, and I will get you a partner for the second."
"You may dispose of me as you like, Oscar."
"Wisely said. Don't forget that I am your Mentor."
When they entered the brilliantly lighted parlors, they were already half full. Oscar introduced his friend to Mrs. Clinton.
"I am glad to see you here, Mr. Walton," said the hostess, graciously. "Oscar, I depend upon you to introduce your friend to some of the young ladies."