He could not help liking the child.

She was such a taking imp! "Glad you've had a good time," he said.

"I hope you thanked your friends for taking you." "I should think I did!" laughed Dinah; and then seeing that his expression was so benignant she slipped an ingratiating hand through his arm.

"Colonel, please--please--may I dance to-night ?" "What ?" He looked at her searchingly, with a somewhat laboured attempt to be severe.

"Now--now--who do you want to dance with ?" "Anyone or no one," said Dinah boldly.