CHAPTER IV.

A LITTLE PAGAN.





The joke had now taken a phase that De Forrest did not relish. While
Lottie's by-play was present, and she was telegraphing to him with
her brilliant eyes, it was excellent. But to sit with his back to
the door leading into the hall, vis-a-vis to Mr. Dimmerly's puckered
face, and give close attention to the game, was a trying ordeal to
one who only consulted his own pleasure. And yet he feared he would
offend Lottie, did he not remain at his post. She was a despotic
little sovereign, and he felt that he must use all address until she
was safely brought to the matrimonial altar. He comforted himself,
however, with the thought that she was generous, and when he acted
the role of martyr she usually rewarded him with a greater show of
kindness, and no got through an hour with indifferent grace.

But this purgatorial hour to him was keenly enjoyed by Lottie and
Hemstead, though by each for different reasons.

"I fear you think me a giddy, wayward girl," said Lottie gently.