urs were all suggestive of the wedding occasion, and, for
a centrepiece, two white doves perched on a basket of white roses.

Mona was in highest spirits and her eyes glistened with pleasure as the
girls assured her of their friendship and love, and wished her all
sorts of future joy and happiness.

Patty looked at her a little curiously, and then she realised that the
girl had lived a loveless life, and that the sudden change to the
atmosphere of love and friendship had well-nigh turned her head.

The guests departed, all but Mona and Elise, who were to stay for
dinner, and the three chums went up to Patty's room to chat.

"I can't believe these things are really mine," said Mona, as she
collected and arranged her laces, preparatory to having them sent home.
"Why is everybody so good to me?"

"Oh, come now, Mona," said Elise, laughing, "it isn't such wonderful
goodness. People always give things to brides. Patty, if you don't
give me a shower like this, I won't get married at all."

"Didn't know you thought of it," returned Patty. "But I'll promise the
shower all right. When shall I invite the girls, Elise?"

"Oh, I haven't picked out the bridegroom yet, so there's no hurry.
I've got to get used to having my brother married, before I think of it
myself. Mona, we'll soon be sisters. Think of that!"

"I've often thought of it, Elise. I've never had a sister, and I
shan't know just how to act at first. But I hope----"

"There now, don't get sentimental! Not but what I feel that way, too,
but you'll get weepy in a minute,--and then it's all up with you!"

"You're so emotional, Mona," said Patty, smiling at her, "and so
capable, and so generally all-round efficient, you're just the one to
get married. Now, when it comes my turn, I don't want all this
hullabaloo,--I think I shall get a good old rope ladder and elope."

"What! and not have any showers and music and reception and everything?"

"Oh, well, I don't know. We'll see when the time comes. But just now,
we must put this affair of yours through. I'm glad there are only a
few more days. I couldn't stand this excitement very long. Come on,
girls, get ready for dinner. The boys will come soon. There's the
bell now. If it's Roger, let Mona go down and see him alone. I'm a
fine gooseberry, don't you think so?"

"It is Roger," Patty announced, a moment later, as she leaned over the
banister to see, "skip along, Mona, we'll be down in ten minut