She knew how much they admired her and it seemed delightfully amusing. As yet, love was no serious consideration in her life.
But now almost the last one entered—a man of thirty, dark, with handsome straight features and very upright bearing.
As he took her hand, his direct gaze was very compelling.
"This occasion. Miss Hastings, is, I hope, the beginning of a better acquaintance with one another."
The words were very simple, but the look said much more, and the firm pressure of her hand was hardly necessary.
She had met him only once before. Why should she blush? Her admirer noticed her embarrassment with satisfaction.
"Yes, I hope so, Mr. Hadly," she said simply, withdrawing her hand as soon as she politely could.
"May I have the first dance?" he asked, still compelling her gaze.
She laughingly handed him her card.
"See! There is only one left—right near the last, too!"