e house of perfect strangers was a culminating act of
folly, bound to result in humiliation.

"We maybe a trifle early," the Governor remarked, lighting a cigarette
and settling himself in a rocker. "We shall receive greater
consideration if we linger a few moments."

As Archie had counted on slipping downstairs heavily supported by
properly invited guests, he paced the floor for a quarter of an hour
while the Governor imperturbably read a magazine.

The room had cleared when at last he expressed his readiness to go.

"The receiving line is probably broken up by this time. Our hostess
doesn't know either of us from the lamented Adam but I shall introduce
you quite casually, you know. Her name, by the way, is Lindsay. There
are scads of people here; the very first families. We may mingle freely
without fear of lowering our social standards."

The stately old lady they found in the drawing-room lifted a lorgnette
as they approached, smiled affably and gave the Governor her hand.

"Mrs. Lindsay, my friend, Mr. Comly. He arrived unexpectedly an hour ago
and I thought you wouldn't mind my bringing him along, so I didn't
bother you by telephoning."

"I should have been displeased if you had hesitated a moment--any friend
of yours, you know!"

"Ruth is with you, of course? I haven't seen her since the last time she
visited you."

"She's the same wonderful girl! You will find her dancing, I think."

Other arrivals facilitated their escape. As they passed down the
drawing-room the Governor directed Archie's attention to a portrait
which he pronounced a Copley, and insisted upon examining closely. It
was with difficulty that Archie persuaded him to leave it, so enraptured
was the Governor with the likeness of a stern old gentleman in powdered
wig, who gazed down upon them with anything but a friendly eye.

As they stepped into the conservatory the music ceased and there was a
flutter as the dancers sought seats, or stepped out upon the lawn.
Archie, acutely uncomfortable, heard the Governor stifle an exclamation.

"That is she! Stand by me now! That chap's just left her. This is our
chance!"

A young woman was just seating herself in a chair at the farther corner
of the conservatory and her partner had darted away toward a table where
punch was offered. The Governor moved toward her quickly. Archie saw her
lift her head suddenly and her lips parted as though she were about to
make an outcry. Then the Governor bowed