Anthony."
"Oh, I'm not going to kick up a fuss. I didn't answer your note,
because there was nothing to say. You still wish me to cease my
attentions?"
"I do! It is her wish and mine."
"Then I shall do so, of course. If Miss Garavel is dancing to-
night I would like your permission to place my name on her
programme."
"No!" exclaimed the banker.
"Purely to avoid comment. Every one knows I have been calling upon
her, and that report of our engagement got about considerably; it
would set people talking if she snubbed me. That is the only
reason I came to this dance. Believe me, I'd rather have stayed
away."
"Perhaps you are right. Let us have no unpleasantness and no
gossip about the affair, by all means. I consent, then." Garavel's
voice altered and he said, with more of his natural geniality, "I
am very glad you take the matter so sensibly, Mr. Anthony; it was,
after all, but a dream of youth."
"And permit me to offer my congratulations upon the honor your
country is about to bestow upon you." Conversing in a friendly
manner, they followed the rest of the party.
As the banker appeared upon the threshold of the ballroom a murmur
ran through the crowd; faces were turned in his direction,
whispers were exchanged, showing that already the news had
travelled.
Pages:
403
404
405
406
407
408
409
410
411
412
413
414
415
416
417
418
419
420
421
422
423
424
425
426
427