In a search for his handkerchief, which he had lost while trying to find his programme card, he had inadvertently wandered into the feed room, set apart as the ladies' dressing room, at the moment when Mrs.Hooven, having removed the waist of Minna's dress, was relacing her corsets.
There was a tremendous scene.

The clerk was ejected forcibly, Mrs.
Hooven filling all the neighbourhood with shrill expostulation.

A young man, Minna's "partner," who stood near the feed room door, waiting for her to come out, had invited the clerk, with elaborate sarcasm, to step outside for a moment; and the clerk, breathless, stupefied, hustled from hand to hand, remained petrified, with staring eyes, turning about and about, looking wildly from face to face, speechless, witless, wondering what had happened.
But the square dance was over.

The City Band was just beginning to play a waltz.

Annixter assuring himself that everything was going all right, was picking his way across the floor, when he came upon Hilma Tree quite alone, and looking anxiously among the crowd of dancers.
"Having a good time, Miss Hilma ?" he demanded, pausing for a moment.
"Oh, am I, JUST!" she exclaimed.