The footmen, being more accustomed to ladies' society, are less embarrassed by their own hands, and by the exigencies of chivalry.

This inversion of the usual attitude of the sexes, will, no doubt, be set more than right when we have retired.

The moment has arrived.

I quit father's arm--for the first time in my life I am honestly sorry to drop it--and go up to my destined partner.
"Ashton," say I, with an attempt at an easy and unembarrassed smile, "will you dance this quadrille with me ?" "Thank you, my lady." How calm he is! how self-possessed.

Oh, that he would impart to me the secret of his composure! I catch sight of the Brat, who is passing at the moment.
"Brat!" cry I, eagerly, snatching at his coat-sleeve, like a drowning man at a straw.