se her husband
had urged it, but she took no part, and threw only an occasional glance
at the floor. But as Isabel was manifestly interested, she presented her
arm and hat to the gaze of the crowd, that her guest might partake in
the doubtful fun if she wished.

Isabel and Gwynne, still tangled in the paper streamers and vigorously
pelted from below, leaned eagerly over the railing and flung handsful of
gold and silver bits upon the already glittering throng. It certainly
was an astonishing sight. There was little seeking after
inconspicuousness, even in the boxes. All were there to celebrate the
birth of the New Year, and to "play the game," however chastened they
might feel on the morrow. All were drinking champagne and growing more
hilarious every moment. One girl modestly dressed, and known to Mrs.
Hofer as an entirely respectable young person, although not of her own
class, was sitting on the knee of the man she was to marry, and drinking
from his glass. The ladies of the lower ten thousand were nicely graded.
Some were dressed with a severe and simple elegance, and painted as
delicately as a miniature. These were very quiet, the carven smile on
their crimson lips not disturbing the careful arrangement of their
features; and their eyes never lost their jewel-like immobility. They
were attended by what is vaguely known as "men about town," men with
money to spend and no position to lose. It was no longer the fashion
among conspicuous men to flaunt their mistresses, but these indefinite
persons kept the old traditions alive. Still other women blazed with
paint and jewels and excessive richness of attire. In attendance were
the big sleek brutes, whom all other men held in contempt. But all were
happy to-night and asking no man for his respect.

At a table in the very middle of the room was a young, buxom, and very
naughty-looking damsel, who evidently was a belle: the circle of black
coats about her round table was unbroken save by herself. What dress she
wore was black, and on her golden head was an immense black hat covered
with feathers. Her abundant diamonds were almost overwhelmed. Every time
one of her escort raised his glass to his lips he toasted her, and she
rose to respond, presumably to give the company the benefit of the tiny
waist that tapered off the white acre above. She was irreverently
hooted, but imperturbably rose and fell like a jack-in-the-box.

Hofer finally sat down to supper with his guests,