greeting. "What
is it about? Do you come to me for advice, or sympathy, or consolation?"

For Mrs. Richards knew of Duncan's visit, and with a shrewd woman's wit
she guessed that Barbara's disturbance of mind was in some way connected
with that event.

"No," answered the girl. "I didn't come to consult you--at least I think
I didn't--it is only that something has happened, and I want to tell you
about it."

"Very well, dear. Go on."

"Oh, it's nothing very important. I don't know why I feel about it as I
do, but----"

"Perhaps if you tell me what it is, I may help you to solve your
riddles. What is it?"

"Why, only that Mr. Guilford Duncan has asked me to go with him to the
party next week."

"Well, go on. I see nothing strange in that."

"Why--don't you understand, it is _Mr. Duncan_, and he has asked _me_."

"I see nothing yet to wonder at," calmly replied her friend. "Indeed, it
seems to be quite natural. I have understood Mr. Duncan to be a
gentleman of uncommonly good taste. If he has made up his mind to attend
the dance, why shouldn't he choose for his partner, the best, the
dearest, and most charming girl in the city? Of course you are going?"

"Why, no, of course I can't. I told him so, but he urged me to postpone
a final decision till to-morrow evening. I thought that would be
useless, and that the delay might make him miss a chance to engage some
other girl; but he insisted that he wasn't going at all unless I would
go with him, so just because he seemed to wish it, I promised to wait
till to-morrow evening before saying a final 'no.' Somehow you simply
have to do what Mr. Duncan wants you to do, you know."

"Mr. Guilford Duncan is rising rapidly in my estimation," answered
Barbara's friend. "I have understood that he is a man of good sense and
good taste. Obviously he deserves that high repute. Your 'no' must be
'yes,' Bab."

"Oh, but that's impossible!"

"I don't see it."

"Why, you _know_ I can't afford a gown."

"I still don't see it. It's to be a fancy dress affair, I believe?"

"Yes, of course."

"Then you can go in any character you like. You've your drab-gray dress,
and it's as fresh as new. I'll go over to your house and alter it for
you. Then with a white cape of Bishop's lawn, and a white cap and apron,
we'll make you into the most charming little Quaker maiden imaginable.
The character will just suit you, because you suit it. That matter is
settled. Go home now and go to bed