He was now, accordingly, in search of the best dancer (possessed of the indispensable personal attractions) who was to be found in the theatres of the Continent.

Hearing from his foreign correspondents of two women who had made successful first appearances, one at Milan and one at Florence, he had arranged to visit those cities, and to judge of the merits of the dancers for himself, before he joined the bride and bridegroom.

His widowed sister, having friends at Florence whom she was anxious to see, readily accompanied him.

The Montbarrys remained at Paris, until it was time to present themselves at the family meeting in Venice.

Henry found them still in the French capital, when he arrived from London on his way to the opening of the new hotel.
Against Lady Montbarry's advice, he took the opportunity of renewing his addresses to Agnes.