He had played his part in the matter, and rubbed his hands as though washing them of any further responsibility.

Indeed he had nothing to tell, save that he had advised Claudius to get an introduction from the Duke.

He well knew that the letters he had given Claudius had been the real means of his success; but as Margaret only asked about the telegram, he was perfectly safe in denying any knowledge of it.

Not that such a consideration would have prevented his meeting her question with a little fib, just to keep the secret.
"Will you not go to this dance with me this evening ?" asked Margaret after dinner, as they sat round the fireplace.
"What ball is that ?" inquired Mr.Bellingham.
"I hardly know what it is.

It is a party at the Van Sueindell's and there is 'dancing' on the card.