lady-in-waiting.

How quaint the little figures looked in their long, cloak-like dominoes
of red, blue, pink, green, white, lilac, and indeed every known color
and tint.

As they each extended a little hand, they peeped at host and hostess
through the eyeholes in their dominoes, and if they were recognized,
they did not know it.

Now and then a ripple of stifled laughter told how greatly they enjoyed
their disguise.

When all had been greeted, Mrs. Dainty raised her sceptre, and when the
little figures were all attention she spoke.

"Dear little subjects, we are happy to have you with us, and for a short
time we wish you to wear the long dominoes which keep us guessing who
you are. And now we will listen to some music, and while you listen you
shall enjoy a wealth of royal bonbons."

At a signal from the queen the little Watteau maid entered, followed by
five other maids in similar costumes, each bearing trays of candies.

At the same moment sweet strains of music sounded through the room,
coming from behind a group of palms and flowering plants.

The bonbons were delicious, and the merry music set little feet tapping
beneath the long cloaks.