'It's not my fault; I should like to oblige you, but business is pressing.'
There was another hubbub in the passage, and the Uhlan burst into the room, 'For heaven's sake, what are you doing, Wladek?'
'Urgent business.'
'But your lady is waiting for you!'
'Do arrange for some one to take my place; I tell you, it's urgent.'
'I don't know how the lady will take it!' cried the retreating Uhlan.
The powerful bass voice of the leader of the mazurka rang out: 'Ladies' ronde!'
'How much will you give me?' hastily began the squire. 'Rather an original situation!' he unexpectedly added, with humour.
'Seventy-five roubles an acre. This is my highest offer. To-morrow I should only give sixty-seven.'
'En avant!' from the ball-room.