or, who should appear but Mark Ray, stumbling square upon that
ludicrous rehearsal, and of course bringing it to an end. No explanation
was made, nor was any needed, for Mark's face showed that he understood
it, and it was as much as he could do to keep from roaring with
merriment; I am sure he pitied Katy, for his manner toward her was very
affectionate and kind, and when once she left the room he complimented
her highly, repeating many things he had heard in her praise from those
who had seen her both in the street and here at home. Juno's face was
like a thundercloud, for she was as much in love with Mark Ray as she
was once with Dr. Grant, and is even jealous of his praise of Katy. Glad
am I that I never yet saw the man who could make me jealous, or for whom
I cared a pin. There's Bob Reynolds up at West Point. I suppose I do
think his epaulettes very becoming to him, but his hair is too light and
he cannot raise whiskers big enough to cast a shadow on the wall, while
I know he looks with contempt upon females who write, even though their
writings never see the light of day; thinks them strong-minded,
self-willed, and all that. He is expected to be present at the party,
but I shall not be. I had rather stay at home and finish that article
entitled "Women of the Present Century," and suggested to my mind by my
Sister Katy, who stands for the picture I am drawing of a pretty woman,
with more heart than brains, contrasting her with such a one as Juno,
her opposite extreme.

January 10.--The last time I wrote in my journal was just before the
party, which is over now, the long-talked-of affair at which Katy was
the reigning belle. I don't know how it happened, but happen it did, and
Juno's glory faded before that of her rival, whose merry, ringing laugh
frequently penetrated to every room, and made more than one look up in
some surprise. But when Mrs. Humphreys said: "It's that charming little
Mrs. Cameron, the prettiest creature I ever saw, her laugh is so
refreshing and genuine," the point was settled, and Katy was free to
laugh as loudly as she pleased.

She did look beautiful, in lace and pearls, with her short hair curling
on her neck. She would not allow us to put so much as a bud in her hair,
showing in this respect a willfulness we never expected; but as she was
perfectly irresistible, we suffered her to have her way, and when she
was dressed, sent her in to father, who had asked to see her. And now
comes the s