"I--I could hardly refuse under the
circumstances; the committee sent me an especially urgent invitation,
and I understand there is to be no dancing until late. One cannot be
too straight-laced out here."
"Oh, never mind apologizing. I see no reason why you need hesitate to
attend. I merely wondered if you could procure me an invitation."
"Did she tell you about it?"
"Well, she delicately hinted at it, and, you know, things are pretty
slow here in a social way. She merely suggested that I might possibly
meet her again there."
"Of course; it is given in her honor."
"So I understood, although she sought to deceive me into the belief
that she was not the lady. We met purely by accident, you understand,
and I am desirous of a more formal presentation."
The minister drew in his breath sharply, but the clasp of his extended
hand was not devoid of warmth. "I will have a card of invitation sent
you at the camp. The committee will be very glad of your presence;
only I warn you frankly regarding the lady, that competition will be
strong."
"Oh, so far as that is concerned I have not yet entered the running,"
laughed Brant, in affected carelessness, "although I must confess my
sporting proclivities are somewhat aroused.
Pages:
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184