"Bessy, I dare not exert myself to that extent," he replied, gently. "You forget I am a disabled soldier."
"Forget that? Not a chance," she flashed. "But I hoped you might dance with me once—just a little."
"No. I might keel over."
She shivered and her eyes dilated. "You mean it as a joke. But it's no joke.... I read about your comrade—that poor Red Payson!" ... Then both devil of humor and woman of fire shone in her glance. "Daren, if you did keel over—you'd die in my arms—not on the floor!"
Then another partner came up to claim her. As the orchestra blurted forth and Bessy leaned to the dancer's clasp she shouted audaciously at Lane: "Don't forget that silver platter!"
Lane turned to Blair to find that worthy shaking his handsome head.
"Did you hear what she said?" asked Lane, close to Blair's ear.
"Every word," replied Blair. "Some kid!... She's like the girl in the motion-pictures. She comes along. She meets the fellow. She looks at him—she says 'good day'—then Wham, into his arms.... My God! ... Lane, is that kid good or bad?"
"Good!" exclaimed Lane, instantly.
"Bah!"