Randolph took his place with her as head couple. Linton and Annie Comray faced them. To Randolph's amazement, Luke and Fanny Pratt took their places as one of the side couples. Randolph, who was aware that Luke had never taken lessons, remarked this with equal surprise and disgust. His lip curled as he remarked to his partner: "Really, I didn't know that Luke Larkin danced."
"Nor I," answered Florence.
"I am sorry he is in our set."
"Why?" asked Florence, regarding him attentively.
"He will probably put us out by his clownish performance."
"Wouldn't it be well to wait and see whether he does or not?" responded Florence, quietly.
Randolph shrugged his shoulders.
"I pity his partner, at any rate," he said.
"I can't join in any such conversation about one of my guests," said Florence, with dignity.
Here the first directions were given, and the quadrille commenced.