NINETHE kindly old General was perplexed and distressed over my sudden exit from the company of Lord Lundy. I explained that, until summoned to the hall, I had been so fascinated by his conversation as to completely forget my engagement with an old schoolfellow—surely Rene and I had had the same dear teacher—and hoped he did not take it amiss.
“He was very gracious, of course—remarking on the impulsiveness of youth—but he said no more about going to the theater,” the General answered. “It’s my opinion that his main, probably his sole interest in it was to enjoy your company there. He was much taken with you, Lucia. I must say you’ve never had a higher compliment. You were the apple of his eye at dinner—”
The General paused, looking at me intently.
“By the way, Lucia, you do look ’strord
