ten o'clock
Most fully he appreciated his position and the motives which actuated the social autocrats of W -- ; he was no longer the poor disgraced clerk , but the talented young lawyer , and prospective heir of Mr. Campbell 's wealth . Bitterly , bitterly came memories of early trial , and now the haughtiness of Irene 's manner stung him as nothing else could possibly have done . He was at a loss to comprehend this change in one who had dared so much in order to assist his family , and proud defiance arose in his heart . It was ten o'clock , the fête was at its height ; the sound of music , the shimmer of jewels and rustle of costly silks mingled with the hum of conversation , and the tread of dancing feet as Russell deposited hat and overcoat in the dressing-room and entered the blazing parlours . The quadrille had just ended , and gay groups chattered in the centre of the room ; among these , Maria Henderson , leaning on Hugh 's arm , and Grace Harris , who had been dancing with Louis Henderson . As Russell crossed the floor to speak to the host and hostess , all eyes turned upon him , and a sudden hush fell on the merry dancers . `` Coaxed at last within the pale of civilization !