He could not steer. He had no confidence, and he got out of nobody's way. Grace's ears got red and tingled, and her whole face flushed with wounded vanity.
After two or three struggles, in which they were ignominiously worsted, she stopped and gazed at the soft, gliding motion of happier girls, with a feeling of anger and desperation.
Then coming towards her, she saw a couple moving with an inexpressibly graceful air, and recognised Sir Albert Gerald.
Forgetful of everything, but that she saw at last one face she knew, she stepped forward and pronounced his name.
Sir Albert laughingly bowed and swung on without stopping.
Tears rose in her eyes, and, turning to Mr. Bott, she said—
"I do not feel well. Will you take me to Lady Lyons?"
He obeyed in silence, so deeply offended with her for her manner, showed evident want of appreciation or his dancing, that he made no effort to persuade her to have some refreshment instead, and bowing, turned away immediately.
"Let us go home, Lady Lyons; I am so tired."
"And have no supper! I have been longing to have something to eat. I declare, sitting on this hard bench and doing penance, makes one desperately hungry; and I am here on your account, my dear."