It is a most delectable old dress, rejoicing greatly in "old point;" and when I am in it, and Martha has fastened the diamonds in my hair and ears and round my throat and wrists and waist, I contemplate myself in a lengthy mirror with feelings akin to admiration. Having dismissed my maid, who professes herself lost in pleased astonishment at the radiant spectacle I present, I go softly to 'Duke's dressing-room door, and, hearing him whistling within, open it quietly. Standing motionless, framed in by the portals, I murmur, "Marmaduke." He turns, and for a moment regards me silently. "My darling!" he says then, in a tone of glad surprise, and comes quickly up to me. "Am I--looking--well?" I ask tremulously. "'Well!' you are looking lovely," returns he, with enthusiasm, and, taking my hand carefully, as though fearful of doing some injury to my toilet, leads me before his glass. "See there," he says, "what a perfect little picture you make." I stare myself out of countenance, and am thoroughly satisfied with what I see. "I had no idea I could ever appear so--presentable," I say, half shy, wholly delighted. "You shall be painted in that dress," declares 'Duke warmly, "and put all those antiquated dames in the picture-gallery in the shade." "Are not the diamonds beautiful?" exclaim I. "And my gloves such a good fit! And"--anxiously--"Marmaduke, are you _sure_ you like my hair?" "I like everything about you. I never saw you look half so well. I feel horribly proud of you." "Bestow a little of your admiration on my bouquet, if you please. Sir Mark had it sent down to me, all the way from London, and his man brought it to me half an hour ago. Was it not thoughtful?" "Very. I suppose"--with a comical sigh--"all the men will be making love to you to-night. That's the worst of having a pretty wife; she is only half one's own." Then, abruptly, changing the subject, "What dear little round babyish arms!" stooping to press his lips to each in turn. "They might belong to a mere child." "And you really think I am looking _downright pretty?_" I ask desperately, yet withal very wistfully, reading his face for a reply. I do so ardently long to be classed among the well favored people! "I should rather think I do. Why, Phyllis! of what earthly use is a mirror to you?" "As--as pretty as Dora?" with hesitation. I am gradually nearing the highest point. "Pshaw! Dora, indeed! She could not hold a candle to you--to be emphatic." "Well, here's a kiss for you," say I, standing on tiptoe to deliver it in the exuberance of my satisfaction, feeling for once in my life, utterly and disgracefully conceited. Marmaduke, however, appearing at this moment dangerously desirous of taking me into his arms and giving me a hearty embrace, to the detriment of my finery, I beat a hasty retreat, and go off to exhibit myself to mamma and Dora.