of the fact. She had merely to make comparisons, to look in the
mirror and see that her hair was fairer and softer, that her
complexion was more delicately perfect, that her slight, rounded
figure was more graceful than any around her. Added to this, she
knew that she had more to say than other girls--a larger stock of
those little frivolous, advice-seeking, aid-demanding nothings than
her compeers seemed to possess.

She knew that in saying them she could look brighter and prettier
and more intelligent than her competitors.

"Yes," she said, "let us dance by all means."

Here also she knew her own proficiency, and in a few seconds she
found that her partner was worthy of her skill.

"Where have you been?" she asked presently. "I am sure you have
been away somewhere, exploring or something."

"I have only been in Africa, shooting."

"Oh, how interesting! You must tell me all about it!"

"I am afraid," replied Guy Oscard, with a somewhat shy laugh, "that
that would NOT be interesting. Besides, I could not tell you now."

"No, but some other time. I suppose you are not going back to
Africa to-morrow, Mr. Oscard?"

"Not quite. And perhaps we may meet somewhere else."