a governess for his children. The butler was
really not a butler in the best sense. He was Henry Cowperwood's private
servitor. But he could carve and preside, and he could be used in either
house as occasion warranted. There was also a hostler and a coachman for
the joint stable. When two carriages were required at once, both drove.
It made a very agreeable and satisfactory working arrangement.

The preparation of this reception had been quite a matter of importance,
for it was necessary for financial reasons to make it as extensive as
possible, and for social reasons as exclusive. It was therefore decided
that the afternoon reception at Frank's house, with its natural overflow
into Henry W.'s, was to be for all--the Tighes, Steners, Butlers,
Mollenhauers, as well as the more select groups to which, for instance,
belonged Arthur Rivers, Mrs. Seneca Davis, Mr. and Mrs. Trenor Drake,
and some of the younger Drexels and Clarks, whom Frank had met. It was
not likely that the latter would condescend, but cards had to be sent.
Later in the evening a less democratic group if possible was to be
entertained, albeit it would have to be extended to include the friends
of Anna, Mrs. Cowperwood, Edward, and Joseph, and any list which Frank
might personally have in mind. This was to be the list. The best that
could be persuaded, commanded, or influenced of the young and socially
elect were to be invited here.

It was not possible, however, not to invite the Butlers, parents and
children, particularly the children, for both afternoon and evening,
since Cowperwood was personally attracted to Aileen and despite the
fact that the presence of the parents would be most unsatisfactory. Even
Aileen as he knew was a little unsatisfactory to Anna and Mrs. Frank
Cowperwood; and these two, when they were together supervising the list
of invitations, often talked about it.

"She's so hoidenish," observed Anna, to her sister-in-law, when they
came to the name of Aileen. "She thinks she knows so much, and she isn't
a bit refined. Her father! Well, if I had her father I wouldn't talk so
smart."

Mrs. Cowperwood, who was before her secretaire in her new boudoir,
lifted her eyebrows.

"You know, Anna, I sometimes wish that Frank's business did not compel
me to have anything to do with them. Mrs. Butler is such a bore. She
means well enough, but she doesn't know anything. And Aileen is too
rough. She's too forward, I think. She comes over here a