“The stranger immediately requested the pleasure of dancing with me, and I innocently assented, never for a moment dreaming that any one would be present in Lady Ruxley’s rooms with whom it would not be proper for me to dance.
“I gave him my card, and he put his name down against a waltz, while a peculiar smile curled his lips.
“Not many minutes after Helen Capel sauntered toward me, and sat down by my side.
“For the first time in her life she was gracious to me, and, bearing her no ill-will, I chatted freely with her for quite a while.
“‘Have you danced much?’ she asked, holding out her hand for my card.
“‘Several times,’ I returned, with a smile, as I gave it up to her.
“She ran her eyes hastily over the names, and I could see her scowl every time she read Roy’s. Then, suddenly looking up, she exclaimed, aghast:
“‘Why, Miss Douglas, will his lordship permit you to dance with the Count de Lussan?’
“The form of the question nettled me exceedingly, and I replied, somewhat haughtily:
“‘His lordship will permit me to dance with whomsoever I choose, Miss Capel.’