There were times when the coldness of these two young gentlemen was very marked, and, amiable as she was, she felt it. But her Clarence was always near, and his superb eyes were watching, ready to come to her at the slightest indication. It was so sweet to be so quickly understood and so promptly obeyed by him.
There had been a brilliant ball at one of the legations, and on the following morning the Seldens and Gunthers were discussing the event in Mrs. Mechlin's parlor.
“You made two new conquests last night,” said the eldest Miss Selden to Mercedes. “Those two attachés are now your new slaves. They are awfully in love. I felt pity for them, to see them so completely captivated. You ought to be proud.”
“I don't think they are in love, but, admitting it is so, why should I be proud? I should be annoyed, that's all,” replied Mercedes.
“Do you expect us to believe that?” Miss Selden asked.
“You may believe it, for it is the truth.”
“You are a strange girl, then.”
“Why so? Why should I wish men to fall in love with me, when I cannot return their love?” said Mercedes, evidently vexed.
“You are the first girl I ever saw that did not want to have admirers; yes, loads of them.”
“Admirers and friends, yes; but you spoke of those young men being in love. Now, if I thought so, I would be very sorry, and, as I do not wish to be unhappy, I hope you are mistaken.”