heir fragrance into every nook and
corner, while the fine orchestra was concealed behind a screen of palms,
mingled with oleanders in full bloom.

There must have been at least two hundred people present, the gentlemen,
of course, in full evening dress, while the ladies' costumes were of
exceeding richness and beauty, yet among them all, it is doubtful if
there was one so happy as the lovely girl who sat so quietly in the
balcony and watched the gay scene in which she could not mingle.

There were a good many people sitting there with her, and not a few
regarded her with curious and admiring interest, and judged from her
dress that she was in mourning, and that she was thus debarred, by
the customs of society, from appearing in a ball-room as one of the
dancers. That she was a lady no one doubted for a moment, for her every
look and movement betrayed it.

Now and then Ray's fond glances would seek her, and, catching her eye,
a little nod or smile plainly told her how he longed to be with her.

Mona saw Mrs. Montague conspicuous among the dancers, and she appeared
to enter into the spirit of the occasion with almost the zest of a young
girl during her first season; while it was noticed that Mr. Palmer was
her companion more frequently than any other person.

She had come in with him for the grand march, and when the procession for
supper was formed she was again upon his arm.

But Mona could not see Ray anywhere among this crowd, and the occupants
of the balcony also going below for refreshment, she found herself almost
alone in the pavilion.

But it was not for long, for presently she caught the sound of a quick,
elastic step, and the next moment her lover was beside her.

"Come back a little, dear, where we can sit in the shadow of the
draperies, and we will have a precious half-hour all by ourselves," he
said, in a low tone; "then in a few moments a servant will bring us up
some supper."

"How thoughtful you are, Ray! But, truly, I do not care for anything to
eat," Mona returned, as she arose and followed him to a cozy nook, where
the draperies would partially conceal them from observation.

"I do, my brown-eyed lassie," Ray responded, emphatically; "after the
violent exercise of the last two hours I am quite sure my inner man needs
replenishing. Ah, James, you're a good fellow," he continued, as a
tan-colored son of the South now made his appearance, bearing a tray of
tempting viands. "Here, take this and