Ruby's Reward — page 160: what you’re looking at

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

Edmund sprang forward to get it, and as he returned it to her, he remarked, with a sarcastic emphasis ; “T understood that Miss Gondon ei not like to waltz; but doubtless it was a spirit of self-sacrifice which impelled her to yield | to the importunitios of another,” The scowl! that ho bestowed wpon Walter as he said this betrayed that he was wrought up to the highest pitch of passion. - Ruby grew crimson to her temples. She had intended to apologise to. him for having waltzed with Waiter after refusing him, }and explain how it had occurred ; but this spirit of vindictiveness sho would not tolerate, and drawing her slicht figure haughtily erect, she said, coldly and briefly : | Thank you for the handkerchief, Mr Carpenter,” and then passed on, leaving him in no enviable frame of mind. But he veas destined to be subjected to even grealer mortification and defeat before the evening was over. The last dance was ended ; the musicians had deyarted, and nearly all the guests as well, Just 2 few intimate friends of the family lingered over their good-nights, anc among these wero both kdmund Carpenter and Walter. The latter as yet had had no opportunity to make his adious to Ruby, and the former was anxious to make an appoint- ment for tho opera with her, Ruby was in ber gayest mood, and was jesting with her brother and two or three other gentlemen, who appeared to be rie- ing with each other in paying her compliments. comicbookss.com