2

THE GLOVES

I must have remained insensible for many minutes, for when I returned to full
consciousness the supper-room was empty and the two hundred guests I had left
seated at table were gathered in agitated groups about the hall. This was what
I first noted; not till afterward did I realize my own situation. I was lying
on a couch in a remote corner of this same hall and beside me, but not looking
at me, stood my lover, Mr. Durand.

How he came to know my state and find me in the general disturbance I did not
stop to inquire. It was enough for me at that moment to look up and see him so
near. Indeed, the relief was so great, the sense of his protection so
comforting that I involuntarily stretched out my hand in gratitude toward him,
but, failing to attract his attention, slipped to the floor and took my stand
at his side. This roused him and he gave me a look which steadied me, in spite
of the thrill of surprise with which I recognized his extreme pallor and a
certain peculiar hesitation in his manner not at all natural to it.