"Though, hang me, I'm not sure if it ended in the right man leaving the stage!" This "second-fiddle feeling," as he styled it humorously to himself, was further increased by the demeanor of Miss Gallosh, to whom he now endeavored to make himself agreeable.

Though sharing the universal respect felt for the character and talents of the Count, she was evidently too perturbed at seeing him appear alone to appreciate his society as it deserved.

Ever since luncheon poor Eva's heart had been sinking.

The beauty, the assurance, the cleverness, and the charm of the fabulously wealthy American heiress had filled her with vague misgivings even while the gentlemen were safely absent; but when Miss Maddison was summoned away, and her father and brother took her place, her uneasiness vastly increased.

Now here was the last buffer removed between the chieftain and her audacious rival (so she already counted her).