Mr. Amberson's whistle
blew;' then the eight young people went to the favour-table and were
given toys and trinkets wherewith to delight the new partners it was
now their privilege to select. Around the walls, the seated non-
participants in this ceremony looked rather conscious; some chattered,
endeavouring not to appear expectant; some tried not to look wistful;
and others were frankly solemn. It was a trying moment; and whoever
secured a favour, this very first shot, might consider the portents
happy for a successful evening.
Holding their twinkling gewgaws in their hands, those about to bestow
honour came toward the seated lines, where expressions became
feverish. Two of the approaching girls seemed to wander, not finding
a predetermined object in sight; and these two were Janie Sharon, and
her cousin, Lucy. At this, George Amberson Minafer, conceiving that
he had little to anticipate from either, turned a proud back upon the
room and affected to converse with his friend, Mr. Charlie Johnson.
The next moment a quick little figure intervened between the two.
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