to have them change places with her or the
other girls. It was only by leaning to one side that they were able to
see the pictures, for the brim of Hermione's hat met that of Vera's, a
rival in pale green and white, forming a screen which completely hid
the stage.

With a sudden compunction Alene remembered that her own hat was of
goodly proportions, with a lovely lace cascade rippling over the brim.
She glanced behind to find that she, too, was an offender, for a little
girl whose head was on a level with Claude's, sat directly in the rear.

For a moment only Alene hesitated, then she reached for her hat pin,
and whispering, called the attention of Laura and Ivy to the situation.
They gave her a nod and following her example took off their hats
which, while not so fine as Alene's and the Ramsey girls', were just as
effectual in shutting out the view.

The people back of them nodded their approval and the mother of the
little maid whom Alene had first noticed leaned forward to thank her,
but the action of the three girls gave little relief so long as those
other hats stood up defiantly in front.

What could be done? They were all missing the first scene and Nettie
and Claude might just as well have remained at home for all enjoyment
they were having.

Alene leaned over and tapped Hermione on the shoulder. The latter
glanced around.

"Would you mind removing your hat, Hermione? The children--"

"What a shame! Thank you for telling me! I'll tell Vera, too!"

Vera glanced at her sister wonderingly when she commenced to unfasten
her hat.

"The children can't see," she explained. "Take yours off too, Vera,
do!"

"Are you crazy'? The very idea! No one can see it if I do!"

"That's the point, no one wants to see it!"

Vera tossed her head.

"It's just in people's way!" persisted Hermione.

"Well, it will be in my own way if I have to keep it in my lap."

Just then came a loud whisper from the rear--

"Country style! No one in the city ever wears a hat at the theatre!"

A chorus of low laughter followed this remark, and Vera, not knowing it
was made by Ivy, began to have doubts as to the correctness of her
position.

It was Alene, she knew, who had inaugurated the style here, and she was
from the city. Vera noticed, besides, that all over the hall the women
and children who wore large hats were taking them off.

"Well, if it's the correct thing. But what's the use of having a fine
hat if it