Amy laughed , but stopped to blush , as Casimer came up with an imploring glance , and whispered , -- `` Is it possible that I may enjoy one divine waltz with you before I go ? '' Amy gave him her hand with a glad assent , and Helen was left alone . Every one was dancing but herself and Hoffman , who stood near by , apparently unconscious of the fact . He glanced covertly at her , and saw that she was beating time with foot and hand , that her eyes shone , her lips smiled . He seemed to take courage at this , for , walking straight up to her , he said , as coolly as if a crown-prince , -- `` Mademoiselle , may I have the honor ? '' A flash of surprise passed over her face , but there was no anger , pride , or hesitation in her manner , as she leaned toward him with a quiet `` Thanks , monsieur . '' A look of triumph was in his eyes as he swept her away to dance , as she had never danced before , for a German waltz is full of life and spirit , wonderfully captivating to English girls , and German gentlemen make it a memorable experience when they please . As they circled round the rustic ball-room , Hoffman never took his eyes off Helen 's , and , as if fascinated , she looked up at him , half conscious that he was reading her heart as she read his . He said not a word , but his face grew very tender , very beautiful in her sight , as she forgot everything except that he had saved her life and she loved him . When they paused , she was breathless and pale ; he also ; and seating her he went away to bring her a glass of wine . As her dizzy eyes grew clear , she saw a little case at her feet , and taking it up , opened it . A worn paper , containing some faded forget-me-nots and these words , fell out , -- `` Gathered where Helen sat on the night of August 10th . '' There was just time to restore its contents to the case , when Hoffman returned , saw it , and looked intensely annoyed as he asked , quickly , -- `` Did you read the name on it ? '' `` I saw only the flowers ; '' and Helen colored beautifully as she spoke . `` And read them ? '' he asked , with a look she could not meet . She was spared an answer , for just then a lad came up , saying , as he offered a note , -- `` Monsieur Hoffman , madame , at the hotel , sends you this , and begs you to come at once . '' As he impatiently opened it , the wind blew the paper into Helen 's lap . She restored it , and in the act , her quick eye caught the signature , `` Thine ever , Ludmilla . '' A slight shadow passed over her face , leaving it very cold and quiet .
XXXXX saw the change , and smiled , as if well pleased , but assuming suddenly his usual manner , said deferentially , -- `` Will mademoiselle permit me to visit my friend for an hour ?
Amy Casimer German Helen Hoffman Mademoiselle ball-room crown-prince left of