Did he ever attend any function that was not so stiff and dull that she invariably pined to depart from the moment of arrival?
Again she read the invitation, recalling Lady Blythebury's gay words when last they had talked the matter over.
"If only Una could come without the lion for once!" she had said.
And she herself had almost echoed the wish.

Sir Roland always spoilt everything.
Well!--She took up her pen.

She supposed she must refuse.

A moment it hovered above the paper.

Then, very slowly, it descended and began to write.
* * * The chatter of many voices and the rhythm of dancing feet, the strains of a string-band in the distance, and, piercing all, the clear, high notes of a flute, filled the spring night with wonderful sound.