Introductions followed, and then the usual original question, "How do you like Washington, Miss Hawkins ?" supplemented by that other usual original question, "Is this your first visit ?" These two exciting topics being exhausted, conversation generally drifted into calmer channels, only to be interrupted at frequent intervals by new introductions and new inquiries as to how Laura liked the capital and whether it was her first visit or not.

And thus for an hour or more the Duchess moved through the crush in a rapture of happiness, for her doubts were dead and gone, now she knew she could conquer here.

A familiar face appeared in the midst of the multitude and Harry Brierly fought his difficult way to her side, his eyes shouting their gratification, so to speak: "Oh, this is a happiness! Tell me, my dear Miss Hawkins--" "Sh! I know what you are going to ask.

I do like Washington--I like it ever so much!" "No, but I was going to ask--" "Yes, I am coming to it, coming to it as fast as I can.

It is my first visit.