He was doubly perplexed now. To place the glove in his hat meant letting it remain there, meant more--a symbol to show that the giver of it was esteemed beyond all others. And that in her case would not be true. Besides, what would _she_ say--what think--whose favour, not proffered but asked for, was already there? Despite all the contrarieties of the night, Eustace Trevor was not prepared to break with Vaga Powell by offering her such a slight--an insult. With much to make him sad and angry, he was neither sad nor angry enough for retaliation as that. Sure, moreover, to recoil upon himself--a reflection which needed no other to determine him. But the challenge had been thrown out, and called for instant response-- a yes or a no. Subterfuge was no longer possible, even had it been of his nature, and he resolved upon making a clean breast of it. "Mademoiselle Lalande, however proud of the trophy you've been good enough to bestow on me, there's a reason why I cannot wear it as you suggest?" "A reason, indeed!" the voice in a tone half vexed, half surprise. "May I know it?" Then, as if repenting the question, she quickly added, "Oh, never mind! Give me back my glove, sir. Good-night!" They, listening inside the pavilion, heard no more words, only the sound of footsteps passing away; first light ones in rapid repetition; then others heavier and slower; after which silence profound. CHAPTER THIRTY FIVE. A COMPLETE ECLAIRCISSEMENT. "Mademoiselle's game is up. You see, Sabrina, I was right, and he's loyal to his love--true to the _guage_ of the egret's plume." "Indeed, yes! What a tale for Vaga! And I shall tell it her soon." "'Twill gladden her, you think?" "I'm quite sure of it. Though I haven't evidence of her heart's inclinings in speech plain as that we've just--Hish! Another couple coming this way! Really, Richard, we ought not to stay here; 'tis bad as being eaves-droppers." "Never mind about the eavesdropping. It will sit light on my conscience, after leading to such good results. Who may be the pair approaching now, I wonder?" They listened. To hear music, with the hum of many voices afar off; but two near, and drawing nearer. "My sister!" said Sabrina, almost instantly recognising one of them; then, after another brief interval of silence, adding, "and Reginald Trevor!" Continuing to advance, the two were soon up to the pavilion; and made stop, on the same spot where but five minutes before stood their respective cousins. Now, however, it was the gentleman who spoke first--after their coming to a stand--and as if changing the subject of the dialogue already in progress. "My cousin Eust seems beside himself with Mademoiselle Lalande. I never saw man so madly in love with a woman. I wonder if she reciprocates it?"