I went to the ball early, wishing to be there before Frances arrived,
to help her if need be over the untrodden paths of court forms and
etiquette. Soon after I entered her Grace's parlor, Mary Hamilton came
in with her mother, and I joined them. I should have been glad to see a
gleam of joy in Mary's eyes when I approached, but I had to be content
with a calm, gracious "I'm glad to see you, baron."

Presently the Duke of York arrived with the duchess on his arm, and they
took their places at the end of the room opposite the musicians' gallery.
Mary and I hastened to kiss their hands, and, withdrawing to a little
distance, awaited Frances's arrival. After the others in the room had
paid their respects to her Grace, she beckoned me to her chair and
said:--

"Your cousin will arrive presently. I have just seen her. Look for a
sensation when she comes. She is radiant, though her gown is as simple as
a country girl's."

"I hear you have brought us a great beauty, baron," remarked the duke.

"Yes, your Highness. We who love her think so," I answered.

"You'll be wanting to be made an earl for your service in bringing her,
eh, baron?" said the duke, laughing. Then bending toward me and
whispering: "A word in your ear, Clyde. You may have it if you play your
cards right and are persistent in importunity."

"No, your Highness. I ask for nothing save favor to my cousin," I
replied.