But Dexie took it all in good part, saying, with a smile: "Well, even a faithful dog is not a despised creature, you know, and it is something to know that Lancy will not whistle for anyone else while I am around," and turning at the door she added, "In case I do not come back, let me say you can count on me for anything I can do towards the success of the picnic. Good evening, ladies and gentlemen," and, as Hugh lifted his eyes, she swept him an elaborate courtesy.
Hugh was too vexed to take any further part in the discussion, and he soon withdrew, intending to find out what it was that drew Dexie away from the pleasant gathering.
When Dexie entered the parlor next door, she found Lancy seated at the piano, looking quite unlike himself.
"What is it, Lancy?" going over to his side. "Why did you not come into our house to-night?"
"I have come across something unusual, Dexie, and I could not leave the piano until I mastered it. Sit here and listen."
Lancy's hands moved across the keys, drawing forth such thrilling chords that her heart was stirred to its lowest depths.
"Stop, Lancy, I cannot bear it," said she at last, laying her hand on Lancy's arm before he had finished a page.
Lancy looked up into the agitated face so near him, saying in a tremulous voice:
"Then I am not mistaken about it, since it affects you the same as myself. What is there about those chords that thrills our hearts so painfully? It is the only piece of music that has ever so affected me. I have not been able to play it through yet without a break. Sit down and try how far you can play, Dexie."