amid much laughter on their part, and embarrassment on mine, helped me undress. When I was clad only in my chemise, Aunt took from the closet a blue wool wrapper and a pair of high-heeled mules--helping me into them she handed me a much ruffled flowered muslin nightgown and told me to change into it. I protested that night gowns were- n't part of the bargain, but got nowhere, and so for the rest of the week I slept in the dainty gown.

Next morning Aunt woke me and helped me to dress, or rather showed me how, for she explained--I should be able to do it for myself. Lacing my corset was physically difficult, but the rest, except for my hair, was easy. Arranging my hair was a long and trying job, but Aunt patiently advised me, and finally I was ready for breakfast--dressed in a plain blue and white cotton morning frock. When we got downstairs Mother complimented me, but chided us for being such slow pokes, however she laughed heartily when I explained that our delay was caused because Aunt had forced me to dress myself.

That afternoon Mother and Aunt left on a shopping expedition, and though they begged me to accompany them I steadfastly refused. After their departure I read for a time, then becoming bored I wandered about the house, finally ending up in my own room. There I turned to the closet and for the first time really examined the dresses hanging there. There were more than I could possibly wear in a week, and though the thought of them was embarrassing there was a tiny tingle of excitement down my spine. Realizing that the morning dress I had on would not be appropriate for dinner I sel- ected a rather plain dark green satin frock, and taking off my cotton one I put it on, changed to more formal shoes and rearranged my hair as best I could. Then putting on the emerald ring, I sur- veyed myself with satisfaction, and went downstairs for the balance of the afternoon. Mother and Aunt, laden with bundles, arrived just in time for dinner. Both approved my choice of gowns and hairdo, so I felt justly proud at having earned this by myself.

The next morning I was dressed in my cotton house frock and downstairs before the others got up. When they did appear I was given the usual scrutiny and approved except for my hair, this they said, wasn't perfectly arranged, but nonetheless good for a begin- ner. After breakfast Aunt told me that she had purchased cloth for a suit the previous day, and asked if I would care to help her make it. I agreed for the time hung heavily on my hands. Going up to the sewing room with her she unwrapped a bundle and spreading

47.