After the fifth dance, Dorothy came up to Leonore. “It’s going beautifully,” she said; “do you see how Peter has turned his back to the room? And I heard a man say that Miss Biddle was freezing to every man who tried to interrupt them. I must arrange some affairs this week so that they shall have chances to see each other. You will help me?”
“I’m very much engaged for this week,” said Leonore.
“What a pity! Never mind; I’ll get Peter. Let me see. She rides beautifully. Did Peter bring his horses?”
“One,” said Leonore, with a suggestion of reluctance in stating the fact.
“I’ll go and arrange it at once,” said Dorothy, thinking that Peter might be getting desperate.
“Mamma,” said Leonore, “how old Mrs. Rivington has grown!”
“I haven’t noticed it, dear,” said her mother.
Dorothy went up to the pair and said: “Peter, won’t you show Miss Biddle the conservatories! You know,” she explained, “they are very beautiful.”
Peter rose dutifully, but with a very passive look on his face.
“And, Peter,” said Dorothy, dolefully, “will you take me in to supper? I haven’t found a man who’s had the grace to ask me.”