22 THE TWO MONUMENTS. 



It was soon over, and Hany Mordant was again at my side. We 

 had walked once or twice round tlic room, when we heard a buzz 

 near the door, and, on turning round, found all eyes fixed that way. 

 We soon perceived they were looking at a young lady who had just 

 entered, accompanied by one whose likeness at once told it was her 

 mother. 



" By all that's good, Hany, but there's a rival belle for you," said I. 



" And my partner for the next dance," replied he, " Who ever 



saw such ? But come ; let's go and ask C who she is ; he 



knows all in this part of the country." And away we proceeded to 

 find out C ; but he was no wiser on the subject than ourselves. 



" Then here goes to find it out," said Mordant, walking away. 



Again the dance was proclaimed, and I, not caring to join, strolled 

 into the card room. After a short stay, I again entered the ball 

 room. I had not gone far before I found Mordant standing alone, 

 with his eyes steadfastly fixed on some object opposite, which object 

 I soon found to be the strange lady. 



" What ho ! Harry," said I, " how is this ? not dancing ! I am 

 surprised that such a gallant youth as you should stand like a statue 

 while so many fair dames are waiting for partners." 



" Never mind," answered he ; " I've been disappointed myself; 

 why should not others be so ? I am waiting for the next change ; 

 they must do the same." 



" Disappointed ! how ? Have you not succeeded in your 

 errand ?" 



" Yes ; I have found out she is the daughter of a late officer in 

 the anny, who died some time ago in India, leaving his only child 

 and widow nearly dependent on the bounty of his country. But I 

 was disappointed in obtaining her as my partner, through Sir 

 William being too quick for me ; so you^see I am waiting for the 

 next chance." 



"Well, you will not have to wait long; for see, they are con- 

 cluding this set already. Good luck to you, and mind introduce me, 

 do you hear ?" and off I went, leaving the love-struck Harry, hawk- 

 like, prepared to pounce upon his prey. 



Half the night passed away. I had lost sight of Mordant and the 

 stranger. Supper was announced ; and as I walked up to the room, 

 I felt some one's hand upon my shoulder. On turning round I 

 beheld Harry and his fair partner. 



