She had tried to explain and prepare him for all this, but there was more than he was prepared for.

She not only danced oftener with Arnault than with any one else, but also strolled with him on the dusky piazza, which, by reason of the dampness due to the storm, was almost deserted.

Graydon had permitted his brow to become clouded, and was so perturbed by the events of the evening that he had not disguised his vexation by gallantries to others.

At last he detected smiles and whispered surmises on the part of some who had seen his devotion before the arrival of Mr.Arnault.This almost angered him, and he felt that Miss Wildmere had imposed a role that would be difficult to maintain.
He had lingered conspicuously near, intent on proving his loyalty, and had hoped every moment that his opportunity would come.

He felt that she should at least divide her time evenly with him and Mr.Arnault, but the evening was drawing to a close, and the latter had received the lion's share.