"I 'll never forgive you if you do. Come, be clever, and help me,
there 's a dear. You know we both were dreadfully rude to Polly,
and agreed that we 'd be as kind and civil to her as ever we could. I
shall keep my word, and see that she is n't slighted at my party, for
I want her to love me, and go home feeling all right."
This artful speech made an impression on the rebellious Thomas,
who glanced at Polly's happy face, remembered his promise, and,
with a groan, resolved to do his duty.
"Well, I 'll take her; but I shall come to grief, for I don't know
anything about your old dances."
"Yes, you do. I 've taught you the steps a dozen times. I 'm going to
begin with a redowa, because the girls like it, and it 's better fun
than square dances. Now, put on your gloves, and go and ask Polly
like a gentleman."
"Oh, thunder!" muttered Tom. And having split the detested gloves
in dragging them on, he nerved himself for the effort, walked up to
Polly, made a stiff bow, stuck out his elbow, and said, solemnly,
"May I have the pleasure, Miss Milton?"
He did it as much like the big fellows as he could, and expected
that Polly would be impressed.
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