I would ask your father and mother and the
children over, if they did not think it would be
too late. Will you have to trim your Christmas
tree at the last minute, or something like that?”

“I don't think so. We still hang up stockings,
though chiefly for Amy Lou now! and this year
we have just a little tree that she is to help trim
after dinner tonight.”

The countess smiled. “I will ask your mother
at least. Perhaps I ought not. What do you
think, Betty?” The Countess Coletti, spoiled
daughter and wife, but gifted and attractive
woman, looked wistfully at Betty, whose heart
was always warm enough to respond to some
one's need. In a moment she realized that for
some reason the countess wanted them there.

“Why, of course, Countess Coletti -- if Mother
can manage it and you want us, she will come.”

“If the child should grow sleepy, she could
rest as well with us and the car is warm -- to
take her home.”

The countess spoke reflectively, but now
hurried away with a warm smile for Betty, not
missed by several of the girls who were
changing costumes for school dresses.

But there was no time for Betty to think of
anything except the present. Joy of joys, the
teachers did not have regular recitations. They

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