Kitty raised her head to reply. But the Dean checked her. Advancing a
step or two, he saluted her again--profoundly.
"Dear Lady Kitty!--dear bringer of light and ambrosia!--rest, and
good-night! Your guests thank you by me, with all their hearts. You have
been the life of their day, the spirit of their mirth. Good-night to
Hebe!--and three cheers for Lady Kitty!"
Eddie Helston led them, and they rang against the old house. Kitty with
a fluttering smile kissed her hand for thanks, and the Dean saw her look
round--dart a swift glance at Ashe. He stood against the window-frame,
in shadow, motionless, his arms folded.
Then suddenly Kitty sprang forward.
"Give me that lamp!" she said to the young footman behind her.
And in a second she had leaped upon the low wall of the terrace and on
the vacant pedestal. The lad to whom she had spoken lost his head and
obeyed her. He raised the lamp. She stooped and took it. Ashe, who was
now standing in the open window with his back to the terrace, turned
round, saw, and rushed forward.
"Kitty!--put it down!"
"Lady Kitty!" cried the Dean, in dismay, while all behind him held their
breath.
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