to show it I tried to be as nonchalant as possible, and changed the subject.

I sat down and we chatted for quite a long time, until she looked at the clock and remarking that it was almost four asked me if I would like a cup of tea. I agreed, and she said, "Fine Davy, I'll have Martha get it ready while we freshen up."

Aunt went to the head of the stairs, and calling down to Martha asked her to serve us tea in the living room. Then she called me into her room. I followed to find her going through one of her capacious closets.

"What are you doing?" I asked.

"I'm looking for a becoming frock for you Davy. The clothes you have on aren't suitable for this time of day." I immediately became embarrassed and starting to protest was silenced by her reply, "Now Davy since you're dressed as a woman you may as well dress appropriately. Those clothes you have on are not right for a tea--so get them off at once." I realized that she was going to have one of her firm spells again so I took off my blouse and skirt, and a moment later, at her bidding, my petticoat and shoes; and stood in front of her in my, or rather her, underthings--firey red with embarrassment. Aunt seeing this asked, "Why are you em- barrassed Davy? I saw you that way yesterday, and you don't look any different now."

·

"I can't help it Aunt. I shouldn't be wearing these clothes."

"Davy, you men are fools.

Why shouldn't you wear dresses if

Now put

you wish, you know they're much nicer than men's clothes. this on," she said handing me a dark blue petticoat--perfectly plain as compared with the frilly white one I had worn under the sheer blouse. I put it on--then slipped into the dress she held ready for me. This dress, made of soft medium-blue silk, was per- fectly plain, with a full skirt and full three-quarter length sleeves. The neckline, cut in a deep V, was without a collar, but had around it a ruching of fine white lace--as did the bottom of the sleeves, Aunt then handed me a pair of black shoes, high but- toned, of course, but daintier and higher heeled than those I had worn before. While I was buttoning the shoes she rearranged my hair, put some powder on my face; and after rummaging through her jewel box, put a pearl necklace around my neck and two bracelets on my left wrist.

56.