She hurried him into the saloon, where they were met immediately by her would-be partner. Philip, bewildered and uneasy, watched her through the evolutions of the dance. She talked rapidly and animatedly, keeping her cavalier in a broad smile, and confirming her lately won reputation of a wit. Her eyes shone; her color was high; she was "really handsome"--as the "censure committee" had occasion to remember at a later day, when it was spoken of in a very different tone from that employed by a member of the distinguished sisterhood in addressing Mrs. Hunt on this night. "You are a fortunate mother, my dear madam, to have two such brilliant daughters. They eclipse the girls entirely." "I have nothing to complain of in my children, ma'am. I done--I did my best by them, and they have repaid me a thousandfold." "Now, I am ready!" said Sarah, to her brother-in-law. "I release you, Mr. Burley!" waving her hand to her late attendant as a princess might to a courtier. Vexed and disturbed by her unsettled manner and queer freaks, Philip gave her his arm, and conducted her through the throng. "Lewis has had fair winds, and must now be nearing the end of his voyage," he remarked, as they sauntered along the piazza. "Ah! he is on the sea to-night! How strange! I had not thought of that!" "I see nothing wonderful in the idea, as he has not had time to cross the Atlantic since he left these shores," returned Philip, dryly. "The oddest thing I can think of at present is yourself, Sarah!" "I am aware of that, Philip. Do not speak harshly to me! You may be sorry for it some day." They were at her door. Her softened manner moved him, and as she offered her hand, he took it with fraternal warmth. "Forgive me, if I was rough! I have not understood you this evening." "It is not likely that you ever will. Time was--but it is folly to allude to that now! Think of me as kindly as you can--will you? You have wounded me sometimes, but never knowingly. I cannot say that of many others with whom I have had dealings. Good-night."