I did neither. I felt I
had a right to be confused, and I gloried in it.
Very soon Miss Tarlingford withdrew, and I experienced an aching void
within, which chops and fritters had no power to replenish.
I opened a chambermaid's heart with a half-dollar, and the treasures of
her knowledge were revealed to me. The beauty and her party were to
remain a fortnight Among her companions there were no males, except a
youthful irresponsibility. _Exultemus!_
Later in the morning I heard the tinkling of the parlor pianoforte.
Music has soothing charms for me, though I have not a savage breast. I
drew near, and found Miss Tarlingford trifling with the keys,--those
keys which lock together so many chains of human sympathy. She rose,
and gave out demonstrations of impending disappearance. I interposed,--
"Pray, continue. I am famished for music, and came specially to
listen."
"It is hardly worth while."
"How can you say so? It is I who know best what I need."
"I will play for you, then."
And she did. This was wonderful. Usually, a long and painful struggle
precedes feminine acquiescence, on such occasions.
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