om the way Miriam acted to-day that she will never lose an
opportunity to hurt Anne's feelings. I thought perhaps time would soften
her wrath, but it looks as though she still nursed her old grudge."

How true Grace's words were to prove she could not at that time foresee.

"Well," said Nora, "Anne is one of the nicest girls in Oakdale, and if
Miriam knows when she's well off she'll mind her own business."

The day before the game, as Grace was leaving school, she heard David's
familiar whistle and turned to see the young man hurrying toward her, a
look of subdued excitement upon his face.

"I've been looking all over for you, Grace," he said, as he lifted his cap
to her. "I have something to tell you. This afternoon after school, Reddy,
Hippy and I went out to the old Omnibus House. I wanted to show the
fellows some things about my machine. While we were out there who should
appear but Julia Crosby and some more of her crowd. They were having a
regular pow-wow and were in high glee over something. We kept still
because we knew if they saw us they'd descend upon us in a body. They
stayed a long time and Julia Crosby made a speech. I couldn't hear what
she said, but it seemed to be about the proper thing, for her satellites
applauded about every two minutes. Then they got their heads together and
all talked at once. While they were so busy we skipped out without being
noticed. I thought I'd better tell you, for I have an idea they are
putting up some scheme to queer you in the game to-morrow; so look out for
them."

"Thank you, David," answered Grace. "You are always looking after our
interests. I wonder what those juniors are planning. They are obliged to
play a fair game, for they know perfectly well what will happen if they
don't. Miss Thompson will be there to-morrow, and they know she has her
eye on them."

"Put not your trust in juniors," cautioned David. "They may elude even her
watchful eye."

"You are coming to see us play to-morrow, aren't you, David?" asked Grace.

"I'll be there before the doors are open, with Reddy and Hippy at my
heels," responded David. "Good-bye, Grace. Look out for squalls
to-morrow."

CHAPTER VI

THE DEEPEST POSSIBLE DISGRACE

A feeling of depression swept over Grace Harlowe as she looked out the
window the next morning. The rain was falling heavily and the skies were
sullen and gray.

"What a miserable day for the game," was her first thought. "I do hope the
rain