The Westcotes by Sir Arthur Thomas Quiller-Couch
page 32 of 148 (21%)
page 32 of 148 (21%)
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crossed the room with Narcissus in tow. "My brother is interested in
your panel of Bacchus and Ariadne; he will be glad to discuss it with you. Br-r-r-!"--he shivered--"I have been down to the door, and it is snowing viciously. Some of our friends will hardly find their homes tonight. I hope, by the way, you have brought a great-coat?" Raoul ignored the question. "I fear, sir, your learning will discover half-a-dozen mistakes," said he, addressing Narcissus and leading the way towards the panel. "But whilst I think of it," Endymion persisted, "I saw half-a-dozen old baize chair-covers behind the cloak-room door. Don't hesitate to take one; you can return it to-morrow or next day." Dorothea being his only audience, he beamed a look on her which said: "They come to us in a hurry, these prisoners--no time to collect a wardrobe; but I think of these little things." "Rest assured, sir, I will turn up my coat-collar," said Raoul; and Dorothea could see him, a moment later, shaking his head good- naturedly, though the Commissary still protested. Dorothea, left to herself, watched them examining and discussing the panel of Bacchus and Ariadne. The orchestra started another _contre- danse_, but no partner approached to claim her. The dance began. It was the "Dashing White Sergeant," and one exuberant couple threatened to tread upon her toes. She stood up and, for lack of anything better to do, began to study the panel behind her. A moment later her hand went up to her throat. |
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