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IX] man I ever metwith one exception, of course!" she added humbly, as Arthur drew himself up with an air of offended dignity.

"And the young lady in blue, just beyond him, talking to that foreign-looking man. Is she learned, too?"

"I don't know," said Lady Muriel. "But I'm told she's a wonderful piano-forte-player. I hope you'll hear her to-night. I asked that foreigner to take her in, because he's very musical, too. He's a French Count, I believe; and he sings splendidly!"

"Sciencemusicsingingyou have indeed got a complete party!" said Arthur. "I feel quite a privileged person, meeting all these stars. I do love music!"

"But the party isn't quite complete!" said Lady Muriel. "You haven't brought us those two beautiful children," she went on, turning to me. "He brought them here to tea, you know, one day last summer," again addressing Arthur; "and they are such darlings!"

"They are, indeed," I assented.

"But why haven't you brought them with you? You promised my father you would."

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