that you always see through things and can get out of
difficulties."

"I didn't know I got into difficulties--not many anyway," Janice
added, with a little sigh.

"Dear me, Janice! don't split hairs--please," said the very
selfish and self-centered Stella. "I want your help. Do tell me
how to get out of asking that girl to my party without offending
her friends--for she has got friends, curiously enough."

"For goodness' sake!" gasped Janice. "What girl do you wish to
snub, Stella?"

"There you go with your nasty insinuations!" exclaimed Stella,
whiningly. "I don't want to snub anybody. But some people are
impossible!"

"Meaning me?" Janice asked with twinkling eyes.

"Of course not. Why will you so misunderstand me? I wouldn't
snub you, Janice Day. I am speaking of Amy Carringford."

"Oh! It is Amy you wish to snub, is it?" Janice said, with a
change of tone.

Even Stella noted the change. She seized Janice's arm.

"Now, don't! You made me say that. I don't really want to snub
her. I don't want to hurt her feelings. But, of course, I can't