fully. "They are
Lepidopterists. I'll give them a Butterfly dinner."

With a definite purpose in view she could proceed to better advantage.
Still, it took hours and a great deal of anxious thought to perfect her
plan. The next few days were busy ones, but when at length Saturday
came, everything was in readiness for the guests.

It was an exceedingly warm July day, and the old vine-covered house
presented an inviting appearance. The walnut trees cast a grateful shade
over the wide veranda, and along the broad drive that ran down to the
gate on either side of which were shrubs and plants. The windows were
open to the breeze and all the rooms were gay with flowers.

Beatrice herself was not the least charming part of the picture as she
stood waiting with a pretty air of dignity to receive her father's
guests. Doctor Raymond's eyes lighted up with pride as he noted the ease
with which she greeted them, and his tone held a caressing inflection
as he said:

"It is good to be home, Beatrice. I think the house never looked so
restful as it does today."

"And I am glad that you are back father," said Bee with some shyness,
for he had not kissed her. She did not think that this might be on
account of the presence of guests. "You must be very warm after being in
the sun. Will you take your friends to the library? It is cooler there,
and Aunt Fanny will serve lemonade immediately."

"That is the right kind of a daughter to have, doctor," exclaimed one of
the scientists with appreciation. "If going to the library means
lemonade, let us adjourn there instantly. I am as dry as a desert."

Chapter XIII

The Butterfly Dinner

"All human history attests
That happiness for man--the hungry sinner--
Since Eve ate apples, much depends on dinner."

--_Byron._

The dining room at Walnut Grove was a place furnished with more regard
for comfort than for show. There was an air about the apartment that
seemed to say that eating here was not a busy matter but one to be
observed in peace and leisure. The furniture was solid, substantial,
comfortable; mellowed by time and use. Had Beatrice but known it she had
a charming setting for her dinner.

"It's only a bit of fun," she said to herself as she put the finishing
touches to the decorations. "If they are not old fogies they will enjoy
it. I don't see how anything can go wrong. Everything is planned so
carefully, and the table does look nice.