'You would not like it if I said you were old, Lorrie. But tell me, am I altered for the worse? or'——
'You have no need to come to me for compliments, surely,' he said smiling.
'I should think more of yours than of any one's,' she whispered, with that sweet dangerous smile; a smile which a man like Ralph Loraine should have taken as a warning not to feel its influence too often.
'How rude I am!' she said at last.—'Mr Leveson, do you know my guardian?' She turned to her companion, who stood holding the lantern a few yards from them.
'I had the honour of dining in your company once, Major Loraine,' he answered, stepping forward. 'It is some time ago, when I first joined at Madras; but I well remember my anxiety to see such a distinguished soldier as yourself.'
There was a ring of truth and honest admiration in the words, which raised them above an ordinary compliment, and which made Ralph hold out his hand and answer cordially: 'I have a bad memory for faces, or I think I should have remembered yours.'
'Thanks,' said Vere, laughing. 'We shall have the pleasure of seeing you to-night, I hope?'
'Yes; my mother told me of the invitation.'
'Of course he is coming,' said Louise. 'And you will dance with me all the evening, Lorrie; won't you?'
'Not quite all, Miss Wrayworth; please, don't forget my waltzes,' said Vere, holding out his hand. 'I must be off now; so good-bye for the present. You won't forget?'