The look, however, appeared to satisfy his hostess; for after a bare pause she seconded her husband's invitation.
That pause had given Keith time to reflect, and he declined to go.

But Norman, too, had seen the glance his wife had given, and he urged his acceptance so warmly and with such real sincerity that finally Keith yielded.
"This is not one of _the_ balls," said Norman, laughingly.

"It is only _a_ ball, one of our subscription dances, so you need have no scruples about going along." Keith looked a little mystified.
"Mrs.Creamer's balls are _the_ balls, my dear fellow.

There, in general, only the rich and the noble enter--rich in prospect and noble in title--" "Norman, how can you talk so!" exclaimed Mrs.Wentworth, with some impatience.

"You know better than that.