"
"Why, I am eighteen."
"I told her I believed you to be of that age, and she ignored my
remark. But what truly surprised both of us was, how you happened to
know my name."
The girl did not attempt to answer, and she was thankful enough that
there was not sufficient light to betray the reddening of her cheeks.
"And you do not mean, even now, to make clear the mystery?" he asked.
"Not--now," she answered, almost timidly. "It is nothing much, only I
would rather not now."
The sudden sound of voices and laughter in the street beneath brought
them both to their feet.
"Why, they are coming across to supper," she exclaimed, in surprise.
"How long we have been here, and it has seemed scarcely a moment! I
shall certainly be in for a scolding, Lieutenant Brant; and I fear your
only means of saving me from being promptly sent home in disgrace will
be to escort me in to supper."
"A delightful punishment!" He drew her hand through his arm, and said:
"And then you will pledge me the first dance following?"
"Oh, you must n't ask me. Really, I have not been on the floor
to-night; I am not in the mood.
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