had not disguised his
vexation by gallantries to others. At last he detected smiles and
whispered surmises on the part of some who had seen his devotion
before the arrival of Mr. Arnault. This almost angered him, and he
felt that Miss Wildmere had imposed a role that would be difficult to
maintain.

He had lingered conspicuously near, intent on proving his loyalty, and
had hoped every moment that his opportunity would come. He felt that
she should at least divide her time evenly with him and Mr. Arnault,
but the evening was drawing to a close, and the latter had received
the lion's share. After noting that others were observing his
desolation, he went resolutely out on the piazza, with the intention
of asking Miss Wildmere to give him the last waltz. Its wide space
was deserted. He waited a few moments, thinking that the object of his
thoughts would turn the corner in her promenade with his rival. Time
passed, and she did not come. He looked through a parlor window,
thinking that she might have entered by some other means of ingress;
and while he was standing there steps slowly approached from a part of
the piazza which was usually in utter darkness, and which was known
as the "lovers' retreat." As the figures passed a lighted window he
recognized them, and was also observed. He was too angry and jealous
now to carry out his purpose, and returned to the general hallway.

Here he was joined a moment later by Miss Wildmere and Mr. Arnault,
and the former began to chat with him in imperturbable ease, while
the gentleman bowed and sought another partner for the waltz that was
about to be danced. Graydon would not show his chagrin under the many
eyes directed toward them, but she nevertheless saw his anger in the
cold expression of his eyes, and realized her danger. She ignored
everything with inimitable skill and sweetness, and there was nothing
for him to do but take her out with the others. Indeed, it almost
instantly became his policy to convince observers that their surmises
were without foundation. He determined that the girl should show him
all the favor his rival had enjoyed, or else--A sudden flash of his
eyes indicated to his observant companion that all her skill would
be required. She was graciousness itself, and when Arnault could
not observe her, stole swift and almost pleading glances into her
partner's eyes.

Another observed her, however. Madge did come down at last, for she
had concluded that the memora