"But you enjoyed it?" "It lifted me to the gates of heaven, dear." "Then I don't care whether any one else heard it or not. But I did so much wish that she might have heard it, or her husband, because they are from the South. I thought they would be as charmed with the old song as you have always been and I'd make a hit with them, perhaps." "But I don't understand, your father hates Bivens so." A big hand was laid on his shoulder, he turned and faced the doctor smiling. "But I don't hate him, my boy! I've given up such foolishness. We've buried the hatchet. I'm to see him in a few minutes and we are to be good friends." "Bivens invited you here to discuss a business proposition to-night!" Stuart exclaimed, blankly. "No, no, no," the doctor answered. "I came with Harriet, of course. Her music teacher placed her on the programme. But Mr. Bivens and I have had some correspondence and I'm to see him in a little while and talk things over quite informally, of course, but effectively." "He has agreed to a conference here?" the young lawyer asked, anxiously. "Why, of course. His butler has just told me he would see me immediately after the ball begins." Stuart breathed easier. "Then, it's all right. I was just going to suggest that I speak to Mr. Bivens for you." "Not at all, my boy, not necessary, I assure you. It will be all right. In five minutes' talk our little differences will all be settled." "If I can be of any service, you'll let me know?" "Certainly," the doctor replied with a frown, "but the whole thing is settled already. Still, I appreciate your offer." Stuart was worried. He could not press the matter further. He was sure from the sensitive tones in which his old friend declined his help that his dignity was hurt by the offer. He was positive there was a misunderstanding somewhere. The doctor's optimism had led him into an embarrassing situation and yet his association with Bivens as his first employer had surely given him some knowledge of his character. He hesitated, about to speak, changed his mind, and turned to Harriet. "You look glorious to-night, little pal! Funny that I never saw you in evening dress before. You look so tall and queenly, so grown, so mature. You're beginning to make me feel old, child. I'll be thinking of you as a grown woman next." "I am twenty-four, you know," she said, simply. "I have never believed it until to-night. I wouldn't have known you at first but for your voice, I had to rub my eyes then." A warm blush tinged the pink and white of the sensitive face. "Oh, Jim, I can't tell you how sweet your Southern blarney is to my heart! I dreamed of a triumph of art. I saw it was impossible before I sang, and now the pretty things you've said have taken all the sting out of defeat and I'm happy." "Then I'm glad, dear." He paused, leaned close and whispered: "Won't you let me know when your father has seen Mr. Bivens? If this conference doesn't go well I may be of some help."