"That is easily explained."

"Why?"

"No looking-glass about."

She gave a little pout, but she liked it.

The music of the next dance was beginning, and, remembering their
social obligations, they both rose. She laid her hand on his arm,
and for a moment his fingers pressed hers. He smiled down into her
upturned eyes with love, but without passion. He never for a second
risked the "gentleman" and showed the "man." He was suggestive of a
forest pool with a smiling rippled surface. There might be depth,
but it was yet unpenetrated.

"Shall we go now," he said, "and say a few words in passing to my
redoubtable father? It might be effective."

"Yes, if you like," she answered promptly. There is no more
confident being on earth than a pretty girl in a successful dress.

They met Sir John at the entrance of the ballroom. He was wandering
about, taking in a vast deal of detail.

"Well, young lady," he said, with an old-world bow, "are you having
a successful evening?"

Millicent laughed. She never knew quite how to take Sir John.