"Why, my dear Gabrielle, the first year you're out, and missing the best ball in the county! Certainly not.
I'm all right.

I shan't be lonely.

A little box came this morning from the Professor, didn't it ?" "Yes, dad." "Then I shall be able to spend the evening very well alone.

The Professor has sent me what he promised the other day." "I've decided not to go," was the girl's firm reply.
"I fear, dear, your mother will be very annoyed if you refuse," he remarked.
"I shall risk that, dear old dad, and stay with you to-night.

Please allow me," she added persuasively, taking his hand in hers and bending till her red lips touched his white brow.