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like even better to talk with you.’
‘Yes, it’s better, and it’s more worthy of your dignity.
Great statesmen oughtn’t to waltz.’
‘Don’t be cruel. Why did you recommend me then to
dance with Miss Osmond?’
‘Ah, that’s different. If you danced with her it would look
simply like a piece of kindness-as if you were doing it for her
amusement. If you dance with me you’ll look as if you were
doing it for your own.’
‘And pray haven’t I a right to amuse myself?’
‘No, not with the affairs of the British Empire on your
hands.’
‘The British Empire be hanged! You’re always laughing
at it.’
‘Amuse yourself with talking to me,’ said Isabel.
‘I’m not sure it’s really a recreation. You’re too pointed;
I’ve always to be defending myself. And you strike me as
more than usually dangerous to-night. Will you absolutely
not dance?’
‘I can’t leave my place. Pansy must find me here.’
He was silent a little. ‘You’re wonderfully good to her,’ he
said suddenly.
Isabel stared a little and smiled. ‘Can you imagine one’s
not being?’
‘No indeed. I know how one is charmed with her. But
you must have done a great deal for her.’
‘I’ve taken her out with me,’ said Isabel, smiling still.
‘And I’ve seen that she has proper clothes.’
‘Your society must have been a great benefit to her. You’ve

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