ert. So you can leave my share till then," she said with a smile.
"What new whim possesses you now, Dexie?" asked Elsie.

"It is not a whim. I am going to put forth my best efforts to-night, and I
can whistle better if I do not eat."

"What nonsense! did you ever try it?"

"Not purposely, but I know I can."

"That is right, Dexie; use every means to enable you to appear at your
best."

CHAPTER XVII.

Mr. Ross had lingered near the house ever since he had parted from Mr.
Sherwood, so anxious was he to hear the decision of his erratic "warbler,"
and he was much relieved when he saw the sleigh drive up to the door at a
much earlier hour than he had dared to hope.

Feeling quite sure that she had reversed her hasty decision, he turned his
steps to the nearest conservatory, from which he emerged later on bearing a
box which contained what he hoped would prove his "peace-offering."

He was received by Mr. Sherwood, who had observed his approach from the
window, and his smiling face told the story before there was time to
exchange words thereon.

"Can I see her?" asked Mr. Ross, as he heard of Lancy's success.

"Well, I'm afraid not; she is engaged, I believe. I suppose you wish to
hear her rehearse?"

"Yes."

"Well, I'm afraid you will have to be content with the promise that she
gave to me, that 'she would do her best.' Depend on it, she will not
disappoint any of us to-night. I'll answer for that."

"But I should like so much to see her. I would like to apologize for my
unintentional mistake. Will you take this bouquet to her with my
compliments, and ask if I may see her for a few moments?"

"She is in Mrs. Gurney's at present," said Mr. Sherwood, "but if you will
wait here I will step in and see her; but I do not think it will be wise to
insist on an interview. My daughter has a temper of her own, and that
announcement has provoked her in a way I never saw equalled, so unless she
seems perfectly willing to see you, she should be let alone, until after
the concert any way."

Mr. Sherwood was soon in the next hall inquiring for his daughter, and she
came down the stairs behind Mrs. Gurney, who also stopped to speak to her
next-door neighbor.

"Dexie," said Mr. Sherwood, "Mr. Ross sends his compliments with this
bouquet, and wishes to know if you will see him and allow him to explain,
or apologize, whichever you choose to call it," and he handed her the
fragrant flowers.

Instantly they were flun