She kept her seat as composedly as if she had been at home.
"I wonder whether I could manage without my colors ?" she said placidly.
"Perhaps I might try." Mr.Engelman's uneasiness increased to downright alarm.

Minna perceived the change, as I did, and at once interfered.
"I am afraid, mamma, it is too late for sketching to-night," she said.
"Suppose Mr.Keller should come back ?" Madame Fontaine rose instantly, with a look of confusion.

"How very stupid of me not to think of it!" she exclaimed.

"Forgive me, Mr.
Engelman--I was so interested, so absorbed--thank you a thousand times for your kindness!" She led the way out, with more apologies and more gratitude.

Mr.Engelman recovered his tranquillity.