"Paul appeared favorably impressed with Uncle Thomas. He hardly had deigned to notice any one except Agnes Randall and Sir Charles Chesterton.
"After this ball I often felt uneasy and presentiments of dread. In dreams appeared vivid reproductions of past scenes.
"Uncle Thomas startled me with the announcement that he had invited Paul Lanier to dine at our apartments. We were to royally entertain Paul, but would be 'duly reserved, as befitted our wealthy and aristocratic tastes.'
"This affair passed off without hitch. Within two days Paul called.
"Uncle Thomas and I treated him with apparent consideration. When Paul was leaving, uncle said:
"'Call any time and often, Mr. Lanier.'
"Paul seemed greatly pleased with uncle's cordiality, and left smiling.
"Seeing how frightened I was, Uncle Thomas said:
"'Uncle Tom always will be eavesdropping when that lover calls.'
"My uncle had met Pierre Lanier. Shortly following Paul's call, Pierre received an invitation to dine with Sir Charles Chesterton. Uncle Thomas proved a most entertaining host, telling of many thrilling adventures in which he had personal part. His recitals greatly interested Pierre.