ature,
the colour of the deep blue eye, and fairness of complexion.

'It is curious,' thought Mrs. Edmonstone, 'that, so very handsome as
Philip is, it is never the first thing remarked about him, just as his
height never is observed till he is compared with other people. The fact
is, that his superior sense carries off a degree of beauty which
would be a misfortune to most men. It is that sedate expression and
distinguished air that make the impression. How happy Laura looks, how
gracefully she moves. No, it is not being foolish to think no one equal
to Laura. My other pair!' and she smiled much more; 'you happy young
things, I would not wish to see anything pleasanter than your merry
faces. Little Amy looks almost as pretty as Laura, now she is lighted
up by blush and smile, and her dancing is very nice, it is just like her
laughing, so quiet, and yet so full of glee. I don't think she is less
graceful than her sister, but the complete enjoyment strikes one more.
And as to enjoyment--there are those bright eyes of her partner's
perfectly sparkling with delight; he looks as if it was a world of
enchantment to him. Never had any one a greater capacity for happiness
than Guy.'

Mrs. Edmonstone might well retain her opinion when, after the quadrille,
Guy came to tell her that he had never seen anything so delightful; and
he entertained Mary Ross with his fresh, joyous pleasure, through the
next dance.

'Laura,' whispered Eveleen, 'I've one ambition. Do you guess it? Don't
tell him; but if he would, I should have a better opinion of myself ever
after. I'm afraid he'll depreciate me to his friend; and really with Mr.
Thorndale, I was no more foolish than a ball requires.'

Lady Eveleen hoped in vain. Captain Morville danced with little Lady
Helen, a child of eleven, who was enchanted at having so tall a partner;
then, after standing still for some time, chose his cousin Amabel.

'You are a good partner and neighbour,' said he, giving her his arm,
'you don't want young lady talk.'

'Should you not have asked Mary? She has been sitting down this long
time.'

'Do you think she cares for such a sport as dancing?'

Amy made no answer.

'You have been well off. You were dancing with Thorndale just now.'

'Yes. It was refreshing to have an old acquaintance among so many
strangers. And he is so delighted with Eveleen; but what is more,
Philip, that Mr. Vernon, who is dancing with Laura, told Maurice he
thought her the