CHAPTER XVIII 244
Here the gentlemen interposed with earnest petitions to be further enlightened on these two last-named points ; but they got only blushes , ejaculations , tremors , and titters , in return for their importunity . The matrons , meantime , offered vinaigrettes and wielded fans ; and again and again reiterated the expression of their concern that their warning had not been taken in time ; and the elder gentlemen laughed , and the younger urged their services on the agitated fair ones .
In the midst of the tumult , and while my eyes and ears were fully engaged in the scene before me , I heard a hem close at my elbow : I turned , and saw Sam .
" If you please , miss , the gipsy declares that there is another young single lady in the room who has not been to her yet , and she swears she will not go till she has seen all . I thought it must be you : there is no one else for it . What shall I tell her ?"
" Oh , I will go by all means ," I answered : and I was glad of the unexpected opportunity to gratify my much-excited curiosity . I slipped out of the room , unobserved by any eye -- for the company were gathered in one mass about the trembling trio just returned -- and I closed the door quietly behind me .
" If you like , miss ," said Sam , " I ' ll wait in the hall for you ; and if she frightens you , just call and I ' ll come in ."
" No , Sam , return to the kitchen : I am not in the least afraid ." Nor was I ; but I was a good deal interested and excited .