"Oh, but it is not the smoke I like," Lesley answered. "It is the people." "Especially the poor people," put in Ethel, saucily. "Now, I can't bear poor people; can you, Captain Duchesne?" "I don't care for them much, I'm afraid." "I like to do them good, and all that sort of thing," said Ethel. "Don't look so sober, Lesley! I like to act to them, or sing to them, or give them money; but I must say I don't like visiting them in the slums, or having to stand too close to them _anywhere_. I am so glad that you agree with me, Captain Duchesne!" And not long afterwards she graciously invited him to call upon her on "her day," and promised him a stall at an approaching _matinee_, two pieces of especial favor, as Lesley knew. Captain Duchesne sat on as if fascinated by the brilliant little vision that had charmed his eyes; and not until an unconscionable time had elapsed did he seem able to tear himself away. When he had gone, Ethel expressed herself approvingly of his looks and manners. "I like those soldierly-looking men," she said. "So well set up and distinguished in appearance. Is he an old friend of yours, Lesley?" "No, I have met him only once before. In Paris, he dined with us--with my grandfather, my mother, and myself." "And he comes from Lady Alice now?" "Yes, to bring me news of her." Ethel nodded her bright little head sagaciously. "It's very plain what Lady Alice wants, then?" "What?" said Lesley, opening her eyes in wide amaze. "She wants you to marry him, my dear." "Nonsense!" "It's not nonsense: don't get so red about it, you silly girl. What a baby you are, Lesley." "I am sure mamma never thought of anything of the kind," said Lesley, with dignity, although her cheeks were still red. "We shall see what we shall see. Well, I won't put my oar in--isn't that kind of me? But, indeed, your Captain Duchesne looks thoroughly ripe for a flirtation, and it will be as much as I can do to keep my hands off him." "How would Mr. Trent like that?" said Lesley, trying to carry the war into the enemy's camp. "He would bear it with the same equanimity with which he bears the rest of my caprices," said Ethel, merrily; but a shade crossed her brow, and she allowed Lesley to lead the conversation to the subject of her _trousseau_.