It all occurred just before midnight, in one of the smaller rooms, which
lead in enfilade from the principal ballroom.

Dancing had been going on for some time, but the evening was close, and
there seemed to be a growing desire on the part of Lady Blakeney's
guests to wander desultorily through the gardens and glasshouses, or sit
about where some measure of coolness could be obtained.

There was a rumour that a new and charming French artiste was to sing a
few peculiarly ravishing songs, unheard in England before. Close to the
main ballroom was the octagon music-room which was brilliantly
illuminated, and in which a large number of chairs had been obviously
disposed for the comfort of an audience. Into this room many of the
guests had already assembled. It was quite clear that a chamber-concert-
-select and attractive as were all Lady Blakeney's entertainments--was in
contemplation.

Marguerite herself, released for a moment from her constant duties near
her royal guests, had strolled through the smaller rooms, accompanied by
Juliette, in order to search for Mademoiselle Candeille and to suggest the
commencement of the improvised concert.

Desiree Candeille had kept herself very much aloof throughout the
evening, only talking to the one or two gentlemen whom her hostess had
presented to her on her arrival, and with M. Chauvelin always in close
attendance upon her every movement.

Presently, when dancing began, she retired to a small boudoir, and there