Sally approached Grace curtsied and handed her a folded note and then left. Grace opened the note and read, 'Please come, the Lion.' The Lion never said 'Please;' he gave orders.
Grace made excuses to Randolph and headed across the floor to find the Lion. As she approached him he turned and saw her and then broke into a big smile. "Ah, Lady Grace I'm so glad you could make it. I wish to invite you to sit with me for dinner tonight."
For the first time since she was introduced her face broke out of the unsmiling mask she had assumed. Her expression was of disbelief, "But Sir, I'm just a squire."
"I won't take no for an answer. Every time I see you or hear of you, you amaze me. I've decide to give you a boost for the Grand Ball."
A Squire announced dinner that was served and the guests f
