"Do you think I could learn enough in that time to venture?"
"Yes, I do. If you make an occasional mistake it won't matter. So, if your mother will give us the use of the sitting-room, I will commence instructions."
Luke had looked at some dancers in the dining-room at the hotel, and was not wholly a novice, therefore. Linton was an excellent dancer, and was clear in his directions. It may also be said that Luke was a ready learner. So it happened at the end of the hour that the pupil had been initiated not only in the ordinary changes of the quadrille, but also in one contra dance, the Virginia Reel, which was a great favorite among the young people of Groveton.
"Now, I think you'll do, Luke," said Linton, when the lesson was concluded. "You are very quick to learn."
"You think I won't be awkward, Linton?"
"No, if you keep cool and don't get flustered."
"I am generally pretty cool. But I shall be rather surprised to see myself on the floor," laughed Luke.
"No doubt others will be, but you'll have a great deal more fun."
"So I shall. I don't like leaning against the wall while others are having a good time."
"If you could dance as well as you can skate you would have no trouble, Luke."