the shrine of the F. U. L. E.--E. E., I mean. And only think of
finding out that one has been sacrificing empty air after all--and to
empty air!"

"Better than to sacrifice everything to oneself," said Alick.

"Not at all. The latter practice is the only way to be agreeable!
By-the-bye, Alick, I wonder if she will deign to come to the ball?"

"What ball?"

"Your ball at Avoncester. It is what I am staying on for! Major
McDonald all but promised me one; and you know you must give one
before you leave this place."

"Don't you know that poor Fraser has just been sent for home on his
sister's death?"

"But I conclude the whole regiment does not go into mourning?"

"No, but Fraser is the one fellow to whom this would be real
enjoyment. Indeed, I particularly wish no hints may be given about
it. Don't deny, I know you have ways of bringing about what you
wish, and I will not have them used here. I know something of the
kind must be done before we leave Avoncester, but to give one this
autumn would be much sooner than needful. I believe there is hardly
an officer but myself and Fraser to whom the expense would not be a
serious consideration, and when I tell you my father had strong
opinions about overdoing reciprocities of gaiety, and drawing heavily
on the officers' purses for them, I do not think you will allow their