We went in to supper; and, half way through, I, half mad by then, for her glance had answered mine, and her quick breathing met my stammered sentences--I rose in my place before all the brilliant crowd, and taking the Red Rose that I wore, flung the ribbon with its jewelled badge round her neck.

In a tumult of applause I sat down: I saw Sapt smiling over his wine, and Fritz frowning.

The rest of the meal passed in silence; neither Flavia nor I could speak.

Fritz touched me on the shoulder, and I rose, gave her my arm, and walked down the hall into a little room, where coffee was served to us.

The gentlemen and ladies in attendance withdrew, and we were alone.
The little room had French windows opening on the gardens.