"Nor I," he responded; "probably Father made it up. Well, we'll soon see."
Mr. Maynard chose two captains, one being Gladys, as it was really her party, and the other Flip Henderson.
These two captains were asked to stand opposite each other at the end of the room, and to "choose sides."
"You must each," said Mr. Maynard, "choose the girls or boys who seem to you most like Chessy Cats."
This advice was not very intelligible, but as it was Gladys' turn to choose first, she chose King.
Then Flip chose Marjorie, as it seemed to him polite to take his hostess.
Then in a burst of good feeling Gladys chose Delight, and though she wanted to refuse, she stifled her ill-nature and stood up next to King.
Then the choosing went on until all were taken, and the two long lines stood on either side of the room.
"You see," said Mr. Maynard, "this is a contest of happiness. I want to see which line of children represents the greater amount of merriment. Will you all please smile?"
Every face broke into a grin, and Mr. Maynard looked at them thoughtfully.