I arranged them myself , remembering that you did n't like what Hannah calls a ` sot-bookay ' , '' said Laurie , handing her a delicate nosegay , in a holder that she had long coveted as she daily passed it in Cardiglia 's window . `` How kind you are ! '' she exclaimed gratefully . `` If I 'd known you were coming I 'd have had something ready for you today , though not as pretty as this , I 'm afraid . '' `` Thank you . It is n't what it should be , but you have improved it , '' he added , as she snapped the silver bracelet on her wrist . `` Please do n't . '' `` I thought you liked that sort of thing . '' `` Not from you , it does n't sound natural , and I like your old bluntness better . '' `` I 'm glad of it , '' he answered , with a look of relief , then buttoned her gloves for her , and asked if his tie was straight , just as he used to do when they went to parties together at home . The company assembled in the long salle a manger , that evening , was such as one sees nowhere but on the Continent . The hospitable Americans had invited every acquaintance they had in Nice , and having no prejudice against titles , secured a few to add luster to their Christmas ball . A Russian prince condescended to sit in a corner for an hour and talk with a massive lady , dressed like Hamlet 's mother in black velvet with a pearl bridle under her chin . A Polish count , aged eighteen , devoted himself to the ladies , who pronounced him , ' a fascinating dear ' , and a German Serene Something , having come to supper alone , roamed vaguely about , seeking what he might devour . Baron Rothschild 's private secretary , a large-nosed Jew in tight boots , affably beamed upon the world , as if his master 's name crowned him with a golden halo . A stout Frenchman , who knew the Emperor , came to indulge his mania for dancing , and Lady de Jones , a British matron , adorned the scene with her little family of eight . Of course , there were many light-footed , shrill-voiced American girls , handsome , lifeless-looking English ditto , and a few plain but piquante French demoiselles , likewise the usual set of traveling young gentlemen who disported themselves gaily , while mammas of all nations lined the walls and smiled upon them benignly when they danced with their daughters . Any young girl can imagine Amy 's state of mind when she ` took the stage ' that night , leaning on Laurie 's arm . She knew she looked well , she loved to dance , she felt that her foot was on her native heath in a ballroom , and enjoyed the delightful sense of power which comes when young girls first discover the new and lovely kingdom they are born to rule by virtue of beauty , youth , and womanhood . She did pity the Davis girls , who were awkward , plain , and destitute of escort , except a grim papa and three grimmer maiden aunts , and she bowed to them in her friendliest manner as she passed , which was good of her , as it permitted them to see her dress , and burn with curiosity to know who her distinguished-looking friend might be .
With the first burst of the band , XXXXX 's color rose , her eyes began to sparkle , and her feet to tap the floor impatiently , for she danced well and wanted Laurie to know it .
American Americans Amy Cardiglia Emperor Frenchman Hannah Jones Something ditto