With this intention he had joined the merry band of masquers, though his heart was sadly out of tune for mirth, and had carried off his mistress without hesitation from the fair circle who were waiting to be abducted. Nay, when he unmasked, and Mistress Carmichael, who had recognised him from the first, stole a look at his face, it wore its usual grave but kindly expression, and the displeasure which had so discomfited her all day, and spoilt her gaiety all night, had entirely disappeared. He was determined to be just and kind and temperate in his dealing with her, though more than life depended on the result. When he spoke it was in a low, soft voice, but every syllable was strangely emphatic and distinct. ‘I behaved unkindly in the Queen’s Park,’ said he, ‘but I was hurt and offended at your conduct. Had I not cause?’ She blushed, yet her eye was bright with repressed exultation. ‘How have I offended you?’ she asked, quickly. ‘I would not do so willingly, you know.’ ‘I thought you different from the others,’ he resumed, with more agitation. ‘In common charity I ask to be undeceived. Did I not see you in the Abbey garden the night before last?’ She trembled all over, but looked him full in the face nevertheless, yet so scared, so startled. ‘What then?’ she murmured, in obvious agitation. ‘You were not alone,’ he continued, with a severe brow; ‘who was your companion?’ She drew a long breath as if immensely relieved, nay, she almost smiled as she replied-- ‘Then, you do not know? you cannot even guess?’ ‘Had I known,’ he answered, significantly, ‘it would not have been the lady I should have questioned.’ She raised her head haughtily. ‘And by what right do you question the lady now?’ she exclaimed. ‘Am I answerable to Walter Maxwell for my conduct? I take leave to think, sir, you might be better employed than in watching my movements.’ He was growing very angry and consequently calmer every second. ‘You had rather give no explanation?’ he said, with studied politeness. She bowed her head in silence, but the colour was fading faster and faster from her cheek. ‘You decline it,’ he added, still very low, but through his set teeth. ‘Distinctly!’ answered the lady, adding, as only a woman would at such a moment, ‘You are neglecting the figure, the dance is going on without you.’