When she explained what had made her laugh, all joined her, remembering that it had indeed seemed as if George was looking for some small object hidden in the ruffles of Elvira's train.
Those rosy lips and pearly teeth looked so sweet, and the little dimples so charming when she laughed, that Clarence would have been satisfied to remain there looking at them for an indefinite length of time without saying anything, only holding her hand in his, and looking into her eyes. But other people were not so entranced, and as now Mr. and Mrs. Mechlin came in, all proceeded to the dining-room, after George had presented him to his aunt.
Mrs. Mechlin was a little cold in her manner at first, thinking that surely Bob must give up all hopes. But being a very courteous hostess, her manner soon became affable, she engaged Clarence in conversation, asking him about fruit-raising in California, and about those wonderfully rich mines, which had given so many millions to the world. Mr. Mechlin also became much interested in what Clarence had to say. Before dinner was over, Mercedes had the pleasure of seeing that Mr. and Mrs. Mechlin were more than favorably impressed with her intended.
After dinner many callers began to arrive. Clarence had not spoken a word yet to Mercedes alone. He followed her with his eyes and watched—without seeming too watchful—for an opportunity of speaking to her without being overheard.
At last the desired moment came, and he was able to whisper a few words.
She blushed as she replied: “Perhaps not this evening—there are so many here.”
“I brought you the ring which you told me I was not to send but bring in person.”
“Bring it to-morrow,” she said, with deeper blush.
“At what time?”
“Perhaps between ten and eleven.”