When suddenly there was a long low growl from a violoncello. Her heart sank.
Almost at the same moment she saw another little group—of elderly men, mostly—open out at one corner of the room near her; and the next thing she knew was that Sir George's keen eyes had caught sight of her. He was by her side in a second.
'What,' said he, 'standing all alone? Why, where's Charley? What's Charley about? Lady Beresford, how are you? Ah, Mary? Edith, you are lovelier every day. But where is that rascal Charley? I must find a partner for my sweet-heart——'
'Oh, please, Sir George,' said Nan, with her heart beating fast.
But by this time there was a noise of preparatory music, and in the middle of the crowd there was something visible like the formation of a double line. At the same instant young Charley Stratherne came hurriedly along, with an eagle eye for possible partners. Him his father instantly seized.
'Where's Frank King? Go and get Frank King. I want Frank King.'
And behold, Frank King was at his elbow!
'Sir George——?'
'Oh, that's you, Frank King. Ask this young lady if she will dance with you——'
'Come on, Frank,' said the youthful M.C., in his hurried bewilderment of duty. 'You'll just do. Let me introduce you to Miss Anne Beresford. Lieutenant King. They want a couple at the other end.'