"My work will be spoiled, then," said the artist, ruefully.
"Then dry it by the flame in the Colonel's eyes as he nears and takes
in my trousers, and hang it so he gets a double show," exclaimed
Madame, recklessly.
"Or the heat from the orbs of Everly as he gazes on the approaching
belle would do the business," echoed Delrose.
"Heat, indeed!" cried madame, "and, Miss Vernon, he's emerald green
jealous of you! never mind, dear little Sir Tilton, I'll pet you by-
and-by; here, come and lift, down one of my feet, the Major or Sir
Peter may have the other; and now adieu to the gay _abandon_ and for
the conventionalities, if I can."
"Honours are divided," cried Delrose, lifting down one foot.
"So is the skirt," said the Colonel, with grave dignity. "Kate, I wish
you would dress in a manner befitting your station."
"Your niece will tell you, Colonel," she said, rising to welcome Vaura
"that men's eyes are women's mirrors; what I see there pleases me; you
are in the minority and feel considerably sat upon, and not--" she
added, laughingly, "so comfortable in your trousers as I in mine; take
it coolly Colonel, and the flame in your eyes will die out, 'tis as
the flicker of an old-fashioned candle; the electric, light the newest
flame for me.
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