aring at the new-comer,
apparently as much surprised to recognise Betty as Betty was to
recognise herself.

"This is my friend Cynthia Alliot; this is my friend Betty Trevor!"
cried Mrs Vanburgh, introducing the two girls with an easy wave of the
hand. "She can't shake hands, poor dear, so you'll have to take the
will for the deed. Where shall we put those plates? There doesn't seem
much room left."

There did not, indeed! Betty stared in amazement at the noble feast
which had been provided for the expected guests. The dining-table was
profusely decorated with flowers, which looked especially beautiful at
this dull, wintry season. Dishes of cold fowls, ham, and tongue, were
flanked by every imaginable description of cakes, both small and large.
Different sorts of jam were dotted here and there among the larger
dishes; tea and coffee cups were ranged at the farther end. It was, in
fact, a North Country high-tea of the most complete and tempting
description.

"Light refreshments are to be served in the drawing-room. This is for
those who can stay on for several hours. My husband is going to dine at
his club, so we can keep the dear things as long as they are happy,"
said Nan with a gush, while the two girls smiled at each other with shy
friendliness.

"Now I shall get to know them! Now they may get to like me, and ask me
to sit with them in their schoolroom," thought lonely Cynthia longingly.

"The Pet herself! She _is_ pretty! Miles would admire her more than
ever; and oh, what a blouse, and I thought mine was quite nice!" sighed
Betty dolorously.

Both Mrs Vanburgh and her friend were very simply attired, but with a
dainty finish and elegance from which Betty's home-made garment was very
far removed. She felt plain and dowdy beside them, and her spirits
suffered in consequence. Superior people may despise her for so doing,
but they don't understand how a girl feels, so their opinion is not
worth having. At seventeen it takes real grace to be a contented
Cinderella, and poor Betty did not at all enjoy the position.

It was difficult, however, for any companions of Nan Vanburgh to be
depressed for long together, so bright was she, so radiant, so brisk,
friendly, and confidential. The girls were sent flying hither and
thither until all the preparations were finished, then--

"Let's go out into the hall, and pretend to be governesses, and walk in
again, to see how the effect strikes us," she cried;