{{betlep184.png}}

she remarked, "I'm surprised, Mr. Lee, to hear
such an expression from the head of the family.
'Boy friend' indeed! Papa, you're getting quite
too modern!"

An amused smile played about Mr. Lee's lips
as he put a generous helping of mashed potato
by the slice of meat he was offering first.
"Modern, is it? Yes, I believe it is and I like
it better than the old expressions. It does not
seem to mean as much. But by the way, the
true head of the family is opposite me. My dear,
is the spinach to be put on the plates or served
in dishes? I am never quite sure how some of
these additions go."

"Served separately, I think," replied Mrs.
Lee, with a twinkle of her eyes to match those
of her husband. "I am quite interested in your
news, though. Will Betty mind if you explain?"

"I could explain," said Doris decidedly.

Betty looked surprised again. Had Jack been
with her so much that Doris could notice? She
felt quite annoyed, but it would call attention
to the fact if she said anything. She smiled as
her father offered her the second plate, after
serving her mother. "Fix that for Amy Lou,
Daddy," she said. "And when you serve my
plate, remember that I had a big lunch."

"Oh, you _did!"_ exclaimed Doris. "Tell us

 [[184]]