A disconcerted manner had shown that even Gus's vanity had not been
impervious to Edith's barb, but he had now recovered himself, and
ventured again:

"I would have my divinity a patron saint sufficiently human to pity
human weakness, and so come at last to listen to no other prayer than
mine."

"Surely, Mr. Elliot, you would wish your saint to listen for some
other reason than your weakness only," said Edith.

"Come, ladies and gentlemen, I move this party breaks up, or some one
will get hurt," said Gus, with a half-vexed laugh.

"What is the matter?" asked Edith innocently.

"Yes," echoed Zell, rising, "what is the matter with _you_, Mr. Van
Dam? Are you asleep, that you are so quiet? Tell us about your
divinity."

"I am an astronomer and fire-worshipper, somewhat dazzled at present
by the nearness and brilliancy of my bright luminary."

"Nonsense! your sight is failing, and you have mistaken a will-o'-the-
wisp for the sun.

"'Dancing here, dancing there, Catch it if you can and dare,'"
and she flitted away before him.