"That is very thoughtful, Humphrey, considering how many things you have to be on the lookout for this evening," Victoria replied.
"That's all right," was Mr. Crewe's gracious reply. "I knew you'd be sufficiently broad-minded to come, and I hope you won't take offence at certain remarks I think it my duty to make."
"Don't let my presence affect you," she answered, smiling; "I have come prepared for anything."
"I'll tell Tooting to give you a good seat," he called back, as he started onward.
Hastings Weare looked up at her, with laughter-brimming eyes.
"Victoria, you're a wonder!" he remarked. "Say, do you remember that tall fellow we met at Humphrey's party, Austen Vane?"
Yes."
"I saw him on the street in Ripton the other day, and he came right up and spoke to me. He hadn't forgotten my name. Now, he'd be my notion of a candidate. He makes you feel as if your presence in the world meant something to him."
"I think he does feel that way," replied Victoria.
"I don't blame him if he feels that way about you," said Hastings, who made love openly.