"
Going back into the main hallway he met Stanton coming down the
stairs with his face unusually flushed.
"Oh, Van," he cried, "where have you been keeping yourself? Come
with me and have some of the best brandy you ever tasted."
"Where is it?"
"In Sibley's room. He brought up a couple of bottles of the prime
old article, and has invited all his friends to make free with it."
"I'm not one of his friends."
"Oh well, you're my friend! What's the odds? A swig of such brandy
will do you good, so come along."
"Come out on the piazza, Stanton. I want to show you something."
"Can't you wait a few moments? I want to have a whirl in this
jolly waltz before it's over."
"No; then it will be too late. I won't keep you long," and Stanton
reluctantly followed him.
Van Berg understood his friend sufficiently well to know that
any ordinary remonstrance would have no influence in his present
condition, and so sought to use a little strategy. Taking him to
the window of the small private parlor, he showed and explained to
him the pretty and quiet scene within.
Stanton's manner changed instantly, and he seemed in no haste to
return to the waltz.
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