so lukewarm in her admiration as you are, forcible language is
called for."

"Well, it certainly is a lovely gown, and you never looked prettier.
There! since you are fishing for compliments, are you pleased now?"

Patty was far from being conceited over her pretty face, but she
honestly liked admiration, and, indeed, she was accustomed to
receive it from all who knew her. At the present moment, she was
standing before a long mirror in her boudoir, putting the last
touches to her new party toilette. Louise, the maid, stood by, with
a fur-trimmed wrap, and Patty drew on her long gloves with a happy
smile of anticipation.

"I just feel sure I'm going to have a good time to-night," she said;
"it's a presentiment or premonition, or whatever you call it."

"Don't flirt too desperately," said Nan, not without cause, for
pretty Petty was by nature a coquette, and as she had many admirers
she merrily led them a dance.

"But it's so interesting to flirt, Nancy. And the boys like it,--so
why not?"

Why not, indeed? thought Nan. Patty's flirtations were harmless,
roguish affairs, and prompted by mischief and good nature. Patty was
a sweet, true character, and if she teased the young men a bit, it
was because of her irrepressible love of fun.

"And this is St. Valentine's night," went on Nan, "so I suppose you