{{betlep145.png}} 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 [[145]]