firsts, or perish in the attempt. With a second and
a first record for Mays there was a possibility--a dazzling
possibility--of firsts in the final Tripos. When one thought of that it
seemed impossible to work too hard, to put _too_ much energy into one's
studies. But the happy blending of work and play which characterises
Newnham life prevented industry from being carried to an exaggerated
extent. The hour's informal dancing after dinner on Wednesday and
Saturday evenings seemed to quicken circulation and brain alike, and the
great Shakespeare Ball was a distinct fillip, although--or was it
_because_?--it involved some slackness for the preparation of costumes.

The short Easter vac. served but as a breathing-space, and then another
May term began with an unparalleled succession of fine and sunny days.
Everything seemed early this spring; trees and shrubs rushed into leaf,
a wealth of blossom gave a fairy-like beauty to the old-world gardens,
and in every youth and maid the spirit of the spring awoke also, and
called to them to come out to play. This was the season for picnics,
for walks along the fields by the riverside, for boating, for bathing,
for garden teas, for breakfast parties at the Orchard, amidst the pink
and white wonder of the apple-blossom.

Darsie Garnett was fired with a desire to give an Orchard party on her
own account, the guests to be Hannah, Margaret France, her special
Fresher adorer (Marian White by name), Ralph Percival, Dan Vernon, two
agreeable Classics from King's; Mrs Reeves to play chaperon--just a
cheery little party of nine. What could you wish for more?

Margaret, preternaturally solemn, opined that _ten_ would be a more
desirable number. "Poor Mrs Reeves! What has _she_ done? Why not ask
some one to play about with _her_? I can't bear to see a Lonely at a
picnic or to be interrupted myself!"

"It _might_ be judicious to invite Minerva!" agreed Darsie, twinkling,
and alluding to the Don who enjoyed the privilege of Mrs Reeves's
special friendship. "Two chaperons! What a character for propriety I
shall gain, to be sure! They little know."

"They know perfectly well, but they are human creatures after all.
They've been young themselves, and they enjoy the Orchard! Set to work
at once, my dear, and get out your invitations. This weather can't
possibly last, and it's going to break my heart if it is wet."

But there was no sign of rain on that exquisite morning when at t