IN THE SHADOW
and at the first beat of the deep organlike voice, those about him paused in their own speech to listen.
"He is a wonderful bat—our friend, Giles, is he not, Miss Moultrie?" said Dessalines, at the same time dropping one great hand upon the shoulder of the Englishman with affectionate familiarity. "Without him what should we have done?" His eyes fell upon Manning; he bowed. "Mr. Moultrie, my compliments," said Dessalines.
Manning bowed, and Virginia saw that his face was a shade paler. Giles wheeled quickly.
"Hello, Aristide! You've met Miss Moultrie, of course. Mother, let me present Count Dessalines. Father, Count Dessalines."
Dessalines, whose head was on a level with the floor of the drag, bowed gracefully and with the suggestion of a Gallic flourish.
"We are so happy at this opportunity of expressing our deep obligation, Count Dessalines," said Lady Maltby earnestly.
"And now he's added to it!" cried Giles, who like most of his class had an inborn dread of a sentimental situation. "First he saves our lives, then he saves the honor of Kent and Surrey."
"I trust that you will do us the honor to call, Count Dessalines," said Sir Henry, who had already called upon the Haytian to express his obligation. The conversation had occurred beyond the earshot of Manning and Virginia who had given way to the pressure of the curious and admiring crowd which was hanging on the heels of Dessalines. Virginia stepped close to her brother.
50
