of exposing Harry to the general ridicule. He
therefore proposed it to Mash, who had partly officiated as master of
the ceremonies, and who, with all the readiness of officious malice,
agreed to assist him; Master Mash therefore, went up to Miss Simmons,
and, with all the solemnity of respect, invited her out to dance, which
she, although indifferent about the matter, accepted without hesitation.
In the meantime, Master Compton went up to Harry with the same
hypocritical civility, and in Miss Simmons' name invited him to dance a
minuet. It was in vain that Harry assured him he knew nothing about the
matter; his perfidious friend told him that it was an indispensable duty
for him to stand up; that Miss Simmons would never forgive him if he
should refuse; that it would be sufficient if he could just describe the
figure, without embarrassing himself about the steps. In the mean time,
he pointed out Miss Simmons, who was advancing towards the upper end of
the room, and, taking advantage of his confusion and embarrassment, led
him forward, and placed him by the young lady's side. Harry was not yet
acquainted with the sublime science of imposing upon unwary simplicity,
and therefore never doubted that the message had come from his friend;
and as nothing could be more repugnant to his character than the want of
compliance, he thought it necessary at least to go and expostulate with
her upon the subject. This was his intention when he suffered himself to
be led up the room; but his tormentors did not give him time, for they
placed him by the side of the young lady, and instantly called to the
music to begin. Miss Simmons, in her turn, was equally surprised at the
partner which was provided for her; she had never imagined minuet
dancing to be one of Harry's accomplishments, and therefore instantly
suspected that it was a concerted scheme to mortify her. However, in
this she was determined they should be disappointed, as she was
destitute of all pride, and had the sincerest regard for Harry. As soon,
therefore, as the music struck up, the young lady began her reverence,
which Harry, who found he was now completely caught, and had no time for
explanation, imitated as well as he was able, but in such a manner as
set the whole room in a titter. Harry, however, arming himself with all
the fortitude he possessed, performed his part as well as could be
expected from a person that had never learned a single step of dancing.
By keeping hi