p and made short for the
occasion. Mrs. Harlowe's heart was touched to the quick and she bent and
kissed the young girl gently.

"How do you do, my dear?" she said kindly. "I am always glad to meet
Grace's friends, and you are most welcome."

Anne was too frightened almost to speak. This was the first party she
had ever attended, and the beautiful room, the girls in their light,
pretty dresses, the bowls of flowers and the cheery firelight nearly
stupefied her.

Mrs. Harlowe disappeared into the little conservatory off the dining
room, returning in a moment with two big red roses which she pinned to
Anne's dress.

"These red roses have been waiting for you all morning," she said, "and
they're just in their prime now."

More guests began to arrive, and soon the room was full of young girls
talking gayly together in groups or walking about, their arms around
each other's waists after the manner of fifteen and sixteen.

Grace had seated Anne at the dining room table behind a large cut glass
bowl which almost hid her small figure. Grace knew from experience that
this would be the most popular spot in the room, and she cautioned many
of her friends to be kind to the timid little stranger. She knew also
that giving Anne something to keep her occupied would relieve her
embarrassment. Anne conscientiously filled and refilled the glasses, and
in the intervals answered the questions put to her; but never asked any
herself.

Miriam Nesbit came in late with her two most intimate friends. She wore
a resplendent dress of old rose crepe and a big black hat. Anne forgot
her resentment when she caught sight of the vision and was lost in
admiration. But she was brought sharply to her senses by a rude,
sneering laugh from the ill-bred girl, who was staring insolently at the
old black silk gown.

Anne flushed and hung her head.

"I am glad Mrs. Harlowe gave me the flowers," she thought. "They hide it
a little, I think."

Meantime there was the bustle of a new and important arrival. Grace and
her mother ushered in a charming little old lady and seated her in the
place of honor, a big leather chair between the windows. She wore a gray
silk dress and a lavender bonnet daintily trimmed in lace and white
ostrich tips.

"Girls," said Grace, as a hush fell over the room, "there is no need for
me to introduce any of you to Mrs. Gray, who is the sponsor for the
freshman class."

There was a buzz of laughter and conversation again,