hite colonial house. A liveried servant opened the automobile door
for her and Penny joined several other guests who were entering the
marble hallway.

"Miss Penelope Nichols," announced a servant.

It was all very formal and made Penny feel slightly ill at ease. She
paused dutifully to greet her hostess.

Mrs. Archibald Dillon, a plump woman, well past middle age, was gowned
in an elegant beaded dress, low-cut and far too conspicuous for the
occasion. She had acquired wealth through marriage, but while she was
active in many clubs and various types of charity work, she had never
been able to achieve her social ambitions.

"My dear, didn't your father come with you?" she inquired, giving
Penny's hand a slight pressure.

"No, Mrs. Dillon, he was detained at the office on an important case.
However, he will surely drop in before the evening is over."

Penny selected a chair in a quiet corner of the reception room and
surveyed the throng. She saw few persons she actually knew although
many she recognized from having seen their photographs in the
newspapers. A long line of chairs along the north wall was completely
unoccupied. Apparently, Mrs. Dillon had expected far more guests than
had arrived.

A listless orchestra played for dancing, but only a few couples were
moving about the floor. There were no young people present. The only
interesting feature of the party was the expensive costumes of the
guests. Many of the women wore elaborate evening gowns of velvet and
bright silk, adorning themselves with glittering diamonds, which
however, could not compete with a string of matched pearls proudly
displayed by the hostess.

"This party resembles a style show," Penny thought. "As far as I'm
concerned it's going to be a big flop."

Mrs. Dillon presently left her post near the door and circulated among
her guests, trying to create a false air of conviviality. Noticing
that Penny sat alone, she came over to her.

"My dear, aren't you dancing? I shall find a nice partner for you."

Before Penny could protest, the woman hurried away, returning almost
immediately accompanied by a man in evening dress. Penny was dismayed
to recognize Hanley Cron. Upon seeing her, he paused, and a look of
keen displeasure crossed his face.

Unaware that she was creating an awkward situation, Mrs. Dillon
gushingly introduced the two. Hanley Cron bowed coldly.

"We've met before," Penny said.

"Oh! Then you're old frien