He felt a little jealous of Tom, who had vied with him in
flattering attentions to Randolph.
"No, I don't think so. Tom isn't here, is he?"
"He received an invitation, but ever since his accident he has
been troubled with severe headaches, and I suppose that keeps
him away."
"He isn't up to my standard," said Randolph, consequentially.
"He comes of a low family."
"You and he have been together a good deal."
"Oh, I have found him of some service, but I have paid for it."
Yet this was the boy who, at his own personal risk, had obtained
for Randolph the prize at the skating-match. Privately, Sam
thought Randolph ungrateful, but he was, nevertheless, pleased
at having distanced Tom in the favor of the young aristocrat.
After an hour, spent in various amusements, one of the company
took her place at the piano, and dancing began.
"Now is your time, Luke," said Linton. "Secure a partner.
It is only a quadrille."
"I feel a little nervous," said Luke. "Perhaps I had better
wait till the second dance."
"Oh, nonsense! Don't be afraid."
Meanwhile, Randolph, with a great flourish, had invited Florence
to dance.
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