for at least one performance a semester. Missy, who was an
Iolanthian, generally chose to render a piano solo or an original
essay. But everybody in school did that much--they had to--and only
a few rose to the estate of being "officers."

The Iolanthians had two tickets up for election: the scholastic,
headed by Beulah Crosswhite for president, and an opposition framed
by some boys who complained that the honours always went to girls
and that it was time men's rights were recognized. The latter
faction put up Raymond Bonner as their candidate. Raymond was as
handsome and gay as Beulah Crosswhite was learned.

It was a notable fight. When the day of election arrived, the
Chemistry room in which the Iolanthians were gathered was electric
with restrained excitement. On the first ballot Raymond and Beulah
stood even. There was a second ballot--a third--a fourth. And still
the deadlock, the atmosphere of tensity growing more vibrant every
second. Finally a group of boys put their heads together. Then
Raymond Bonner arose.

"In view of the deadlock which it seems impossible to break," be
began, in the rather stilted manner which befits such assemblages,
"I propose that we put up a substitute candidate. I propose the name
of Miss Melissa Merriam."

Oh, dear heaven! For a second Missy was afraid she was going to cry-
-she didn't know why. But she caught Raymond's eye on her, smiling
encouragement, and she mistily glowed back at him. And on the very
first vote she was elected. Yes. Miss Melissa Merriam was president
of Iolanthe. She was prominent.