"Well, in my humble opinion, it would be downright stupid for you two
girls to fool yourselves into disliking Lydia Orr. She'd like to be
friends with everybody; why not give her a chance?"

Again Ellen did not reply; and again it was Fanny who spoke the words
that rose to her friend's lips unuttered:

"I can't see how you should know so much about Miss Orr, Jim."

"I don't myself," he returned good-humoredly. "But sometimes a man
can see through a woman better--or at least more fair-mindedly than
another woman. You see," he added, "there's no sex jealousy in the
way."

Both girls cried out in protest against this.

It wasn't so, they declared. He ought to be ashamed of himself! As
for being _jealous_ of any one--Fanny haughtily disclaimed the
suggestion, with a bitterness which astonished her friend.

It was something of a relief to all three when the brilliantly
illuminated house and grounds belonging to Mrs. Solomon Black came in
view. Japanese lanterns in lavish abundance had been strung from tree
to tree and outlined the piazza and the walk leading to the house.

"Doesn't it look lovely!" cried Ellen, scattering her vexation to the
winds. "I never saw anything so pretty!"

Inside the house further surprises awaited them; the music of harp