As this was Millicent’s first appearance since her election to the club, her sponsors were taking care that she met such of the members as had not previously been within her social range. Franklin Mills’s efforts to establish the Hardens had not been unavailing. Bruce, watching her as she danced with a succession of partners, heard an elderly army officer asking the name of the golden-haired girl who carried herself so superbly.
Bruce was waiting for his next dance with her and not greatly interested in what went on about him, when Dale Freeman accosted him.
“Just look at the girl! Seeing her dancing just like any other perfectly healthy young being, you’d never think she had so many wonderful things in her head and heart. Millie’s one of those people who think with their hearts as well as their brains. When you find that combination, sonny, you’ve got something!”
“Um—yes,” he assented glumly.
Dale looked up at him and laughed. “I’ll begin to suspect you’re in love with her now if you act like this!”
“The suspicion does me honor!” he replied.
“Oh, I’m not going to push you! I did have some idea of helping you, but I see it’s no use.”
“Really, none,” he answered soberly. And for a moment the old unhappiness clutched him....
At one o’clock he left the hall with Helen and Millicent.
“I suppose the tongues will wag for a while,” Helen sighed wearily. “But you’ve got to hand it to Constance and George! They certainly put on a good show!”