"I have for a long time thought of taking lessons on the piano," said Randall, who had never thought of it before, "if I could only find a teacher who would not be too strict. Do you--take gentlemen?" "I am afraid I could not venture upon a pupil of your age, Mr. Randall," said Rose, amused. "Suppose you proved refractory?" "But I never would." "I am afraid my time is fully occupied. I will promise, however, to take you, if I agree to take any gentlemen." "Thank you. I shall not forget your promise." Clinton Randall, though he had been walking in a different direction, turned and accompanied Rose, both chatting easily and familiarly. It never occurred to Rose that she might meet any one who would comment upon her and her escort. But at the corner of Eighteenth street and Broadway she met a tall young lady, who made her the slightest possible nod, while she fixed eyes of scorn and displeasure upon the two. Clinton Randall raised his hat, and they parted. "You know Miss Jayne, then, Miss Beaufort," said Randall. "Yes, slightly, and you?" "I have met her in society." "She is a niece of Mrs. Tilton, to whose daughters I am giving music-lessons." "Indeed! I know Mrs. Tilton--I am to attend her party next week. Shall you be there?" "I believe so--not as a guest, however. She has invited me to play on the piano for the entertainment of the guests. You will probably dance to my music." "I would rather dance with you to the music of another player, Miss Beaufort." "You forget, Mr. Randall, that I am a poor music-teacher." "I don't think of it at all. It makes no difference in your claims to consideration." "The world does not agree with you, Mr. Randall." "Then it ought. By the way, Miss Beaufort, has your elderly admirer renewed his proposals?" "Mr. Parkinson? No, I have not met him since." "You are sure you won't relent, and make him a happy man?" "I don't think it at all likely," said Rose, laughing. Meanwhile Rose had made an enemy without being aware of it. Miss Arethusa Jayne had long looked upon Clinton Randall with eyes of partiality, not alone on account of his good looks, but because he was wealthy, socially distinguished, and in all respects a desirable _parti_. In her vanity she had thought that he was not indifferent to her attractions. When, therefore, she saw him walking with her aunt's music-teacher, she was not only angry but jealous. She reluctantly admitted that Rose was pretty, though she considered herself still more so. After this meeting she changed her plans, and went straight to her aunt. "Aunt," she said, "whom do you think I met on Broadway just now?" "I am sure I can't tell, Arethusa. I suppose all the world and his wife are out this fine day." "Your music-teacher, Miss Beaufort, and Clinton Randall." "You don't say so!" ejaculated Mrs. Tilton. "How should she know him?"