Sentence:  “Well,” I <WSD>answered</WSD>, at first with uncertainty, then with inspiration, “he would do splendidly to lead your cotillon, if you think of having one.” &para; “So you do not dance, Mr. Crocker?” &para; I was somewhat set back by her perspicuity. 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  To make a reply or response to.