the soft touch of her hair on my lips, "you dissemble so charmingly as to
even puzzle me. But if I leave you now, as you request, I must first have
promise of welcome again."

"Then you mean to return--a prisoner? I am always merciful to the
suffering."

"No; we are coming back to Philadelphia victors, and soon. I am not
afraid to tell you. I have learned much to-day, and go back to report to
Washington that the exchange of British commanders means the early
evacuation of this city. When we meet again you will not be a lady of the
Blended Rose, nor will I be wearing this uniform."

Her eyes sparkled brightly into mine, then dropped demurely.

"I--I rather like the colors you are wearing now, and am sure this dress
is most becoming. I--I have a passion for masquerade."

"I recognize that, but have already discovered where I can read the truth
beyond the masque--what is occurring now?"

She turned to look, attracted as I had been by the change and bustle
about us. A few feet from where we stood conversing, large folding doors,
previously concealed by draperies, were suddenly flung wide open,
revealing a magnificent dining-hall. Before the crowd could recover from
its first surprise, and surge that way, my eyes had taken in the full
effect of the disclosure. It was a vast saloon, as I have since been
informed, measuring two hundred and ten feet by forty, with a height of
twenty-two feet, having three large alcoves on each side. The ceiling was
the segment of a circle, the sides painted a light straw color, with vine
leaves and festoons of flowers, some in bright, others in dark green.
More than fifty large pier-glasses extended from floor to ceiling,
reflecting the glitter of the tables, while a hundred branches of three
lights each, and eighteen clusters of twenty-four, illumined the immense
apartment, aided by three hundred wax tapers upon the snowy tables. These
were already prepared for service, set with nearly five hundred covers, a
large company of black slaves, attired in Oriental fashion, awaiting the
coming of the guests. Sir William and his brother already led the way,
the others pouring in as rapidly as the wide doors would permit. Dazzled
by the magnificent spectacle I turned to my companion, unable to resist
temptation. She must have instantly read the purpose in my face, for she
grasped my sleeve.

"No; you must not think of remaining a moment longer. There will be a
seat reserved for me, and Captain G