"Who are `we,' I wonder?" was Betty's mental question as she crossed the threshold, and the next moment brought with it a shock of surprise, for, standing in the middle of the room, her hair shining like an aureola round her head, stood no less a person than the Pampered Pet herself. A plate of cakes was held in one hand, and a plate of bread-and-butter in the other, and she stood stock still, staring at the new-comer, apparently as much surprised to recognise Betty as Betty was to recognise herself. "This is my friend Cynthia Alliot; this is my friend Betty Trevor!" cried Mrs Vanburgh, introducing the two girls with an easy wave of the hand. "She can't shake hands, poor dear, so you'll have to take the will for the deed. Where shall we put those plates? There doesn't seem much room left." There did not, indeed! Betty stared in amazement at the noble feast which had been provided for the expected guests. The dining-table was profusely decorated with flowers, which looked especially beautiful at this dull, wintry season. Dishes of cold fowls, ham, and tongue, were flanked by every imaginable description of cakes, both small and large. Different sorts of jam were dotted here and there among the larger dishes; tea and coffee cups were ranged at the farther end. It was, in fact, a North Country high-tea of the most complete and tempting description. "Light refreshments are to be served in the drawing-room. This is for those who can stay on for several hours. My husband is going to dine at his club, so we can keep the dear things as long as they are happy," said Nan with a gush, while the two girls smiled at each other with shy friendliness. "Now I shall get to know them! Now they may get to like me, and ask me to sit with them in their schoolroom," thought lonely Cynthia longingly. "The Pet herself! She _is_ pretty! Miles would admire her more than ever; and oh, what a blouse, and I thought mine was quite nice!" sighed Betty dolorously. Both Mrs Vanburgh and her friend were very simply attired, but with a dainty finish and elegance from which Betty's home-made garment was very far removed. She felt plain and dowdy beside them, and her spirits suffered in consequence. Superior people may despise her for so doing, but they don't understand how a girl feels, so their opinion is not worth having. At seventeen it takes real grace to be a contented Cinderella, and poor Betty did not at all enjoy the position. It was difficult, however, for any companions of Nan Vanburgh to be depressed for long together, so bright was she, so radiant, so brisk, friendly, and confidential. The girls were sent flying hither and thither until all the preparations were finished, then--