glancing from row to row;
then, as from some inspiration, her face cleared and she grew arch,
shaking a finger playfully. "To the victors belong the spoils," she said
with sprightly humour, "and it will, at least, narrow the choice. I will
ask those young ladies whose fathers chance to be of a Republican way of
thinking to please arise."

A silence followed--a silence of disappointment to the many; then Emily
Louise MacLauren arose.

Was retribution following thus fast because of that subterfuge of
Mugwump? Alas for that conscientiousness of which she had once been
proud! Was it the measure of her degradation she read on Rosalie's
startled face--Rosalie's face of stricken incredulity and amaze? But no;
Rosalie's transfixed gaze was not on Emily Louise--it passed her, to----

To where in the aisle beyond stood another--Isobel.

But the head of Isobel was erect, and her eyes flashed triumph; the
throw of Isobel's shoulders flung defiance back in the moment of being
chosen.

Excitement quivered the voice of Miss Amanda's announcement. "The wife
of the President of the United States, young ladies, having signified
her intention of to-day visiting our school, the young ladies standing
will report to the office at once, to receive instructions as to their
part in the programme; though first, perhaps"--did Miss Amanda read sex
through self--"a little smoothing of hair--and ribbons----"

Emily Louise on this day carried her news home doubtfully, for Aunt
Louise and Aunt Cordelia were of such violent Democracy.

"You were chosen"--Aunt Louise repeated--"Isobel, to make the speech and
you to present the flowers?" Aunt Louisa's face was alight with
excitement and inquiry. "And what did you do, Emmy Lou?"

"I gave them to her up on the platform; it was a pyramid in a lace
paper--the bouquet."

"And then?" Aunt Louise was breathless with attention.

"She kissed me," said Emily Louise, "on the cheek."

Aunt Louise gave a little laugh of gratification and pride. "The wife of
the President--why, Emmy Lou----"

"I'll write to her Aunt Katie this very afternoon," said Aunt Cordelia.

"Better look to the family tree," said Uncle Charlie. "There's danger of
too rich soil in these public honours."

But, instead, Emily Louise went out and sat on the side-door step; she
needed solitude for the readjustment of her ideas.

Aunt Cordelia was pleased, and Aunt Louise was proud.

And Emily Louise, with the kiss of Republicanism