"It flatters me, sir, that you prefer my company to that of the many
splendid beauties who are in this saloon; though it may gratify me still
more _if you knew who I am_."
The last clause was uttered with an emphasis, and followed by a sigh!
"Poor girl!" thought I, "she fancies that I mistake her for some grand
dame--that if I knew her real position her humble avocation, I should
not longer care to dance with her. In that she is mistaken. I make no
distinction between a milliner and a marchioness, especially in a
ball-room. There, grace and beauty alone guide to preference."