The Price He Paid — page 108: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

AT THE BALL. 99 ments, and breaking up into merry, chattering groups. Now at length came the long-looked-for moment when George and Gabrielle might hope to exchange some words in private, free, unrestrained words, such as they had not yet been able to address to each other. Hitherto the eyes of the assembled company had been on them, making familiar speech impossible. A distant boudoir, untenanted for the time being— though a lively hum of voices told of neighbors. in the adjoining room—served as the desired refuge. Thither the young Baroness von Harder and Assessor Winterfeld repaired, and, standing opposite each other by the fire-place, entered into what to a chance intruder would have seemed a quiet, com- monplace conversation, though, in truth, that low- spoken dialogue differed widely from the conven- tional talk current in society. “So at last we have one minute alone together,” whispered George, passionately; “the first that has been accorded to us for weeks! I fancied it would be easier to feel you near, and yet beyond my reach.” | “Yes, you are right,” said Gabrielle, in the same low tone. “Weare very, very far apart here, though you daily come tothe castle. I always hoped you would find some means of breaking through the barriers which separate us.” “Have I not tried to the best of my ability? You know how your mother met my overtures. She re- ceived me kindly enough when I called, but she was careful not to let fall a word which could be construed into an invitation to repeat the visit. | cannot force myself into a house where I am clearly told that my presence is not wanted.” A slight frown gathered on the young lady’s fair row. "© - “That was not mamma’s fault. She would have welcomed you now as willingly as formerly. It was my guardian who prevented her inviting you. I oot mamma to tell him of your call, and of our pre- vious acquaintance, because |——” “S (E(0} 3 Eomicboo