“The stranger immediately requested the pleasure of dancing with me, and I innocently assented, never for a moment dreaming that any one would be present in Lady Ruxley’s rooms with whom it would not be proper for me to dance. “I gave him my card, and he put his name down against a waltz, while a peculiar smile curled his lips. “Not many minutes after Helen Capel sauntered toward me, and sat down by my side. “For the first time in her life she was gracious to me, and, bearing her no ill-will, I chatted freely with her for quite a while. “‘Have you danced much?’ she asked, holding out her hand for my card. “‘Several times,’ I returned, with a smile, as I gave it up to her. “She ran her eyes hastily over the names, and I could see her scowl every time she read Roy’s. Then, suddenly looking up, she exclaimed, aghast: “‘Why, Miss Douglas, will his lordship permit you to dance with the Count de Lussan?’ “The form of the question nettled me exceedingly, and I replied, somewhat haughtily: “‘His lordship will permit me to dance with whomsoever I choose, Miss Capel.’ “She laughed a silvery, wicked laugh, and fixing her bold black eyes upon me, said, in an exasperated way: “Pardon me, Miss Douglas, but I do not believe Lord Dunforth, who is very arbitrary when once his will is aroused, will permit his betrothed to dance with any one who bears the reputation which Count de Lussan bears.’ “‘But your own brother introduced me to him, Miss Capel!’ I exclaimed, indignantly. “‘Charles? I’m astonished at him; but I presume the count asked him, and he did not like to refuse. Why, he is a notorious blackleg, and how he ever gained admission here, is more than I can tell.’ “I was startled at this intelligence, but I would not show it before her, nor yield one iota; and looking up at that moment, I saw Lord Dunforth and Count de Lussan both approaching me. “Miss Capel remained by my side, evidently desirous of seeing the little game played out. “The count reached me first, and bowing low, offered me his arm, saying his turn had come. “I glanced nervously into my lover’s face as I hesitatingly took the count’s arm, fearing that all was not right, and my heart stood still, as I noted its expression of blank dismay and stern displeasure. “He hastened forward, and taking my card, hastily scanned the names upon it, and his brow grew dark with wrath, as he read Count de Lussan’s against a waltz. “Bowing haughtily to my companion, he said, with compressed lips: “‘Excuse me, but I must ask you to release this lady from her promise to dance with you.’ “The count’s eyes flashed fire, and his face grew crimson, as he answered, coldly: “‘I cannot do so, my lord, except at the lady’s own request.’ “‘She does request it through me—by my desire,’ replied Lord Dunforth, sternly.