Then they all looked at the house which was filled with a brilliant audience. Immediately in front, in the first row of orchestra chairs, were Mr. Gunther and the party of New Yorkers. They were all looking at their box. Mercedes blushed when she met the steady gaze of Mr. Selden, and his face reproduced the blush, while his heart beat with wild throbs of delight. Clarence's face also flushed, and then turned pale. He had seen the two blush, and a cold feeling of undefinable fear and savageness seized him—a desire to go and choke Mr. Selden where he was—right there in his orchestra chair.
George by this time was exchanging bows with the New Yorkers. They spoke among themselves, and soon after all arose and left their seats.
“I think Gunther is bringing his brother and friends to present them to you, ladies,” said George.
“Being your friends, we shall be pleased to see them,” Elvira answered.
“I hope those gentlemen will cease to stare when they are acquainted. That young man of the red whiskers made me blush by looking at me so steadily. I hope that that is not the custom of New Yorkers,” said Mercedes.
“I am afraid it is. You had better try to get used to it, and don't mind it,” George replied.
Mr. Gunther now presented himself at the door, followed by his brother and the four others, already well known by sight, the ceremony of introduction being performed by George, with the ease and grace of one used to those society duties. All took seats, there being room enough for a dozen people in the spacious box.
George and Clarence had left their seats to receive the guests, so very naturally Mr. Selden slipped by and sat next to Mercedes.
CHAPTER XIV.—Of Miscellaneous Incidents.
“What do you think of the opera—are you enjoying it much?” asked Mr. Selden, by way of opening conversation, having turned his chair to face Mercedes.