others didn't raise any hopes of escaping this further threat to his male identity.

Chris tried desperately to change the subject. "What's a 'Help Party' anyway?"

Mary answered, "Mrs. Ambrose, the Director, has several small parties for the staff members of various departments. Every employee attends, most going to the one early on New Year's Day, before the Big Party that night."

"And she insists that everyone be in formal wear. That means a dress!" Caroline added.

Judy said, "And that's not the place for you to be wearing a dress for the first time, either, you know?"

"I could wear a tuxedo, couldn't I?" Chris countered.

"Yes, if you can find one,

Judy answered. Chris groaned 'Good grief to himself, then 'Damn it!' for good measure. "Well, what if I don't go?" he asked peevishly.

Everyone suddenly looked very worried until Mary broke the awkward silence. "Mrs. Ambrose is a very kind and generous person, Chrissy, and a talented administrator, but she also is not one to be denied. You've got first-hand knowledge of her ways, remember? But you still have no idea what sort of hell she could put you through if you snub her by not attending. And there wouldn't be a thing any of us could do to help you. This is a closed and very isolated mini-society, and she is the queen of the hill. Is that the sort of person you would want on your wrong side? And don't forget your contract."

"But it's not even Thanksgiving yet! I don't need that much practice in a dress, do I?"

Alice answered. "You do if you want to look natural and, more importantly, unmasculine. That's very important, you know. Right girls?" There was a chorus of 'you bet's and

10