"And it's only because you're crazy over that Cosmic Club that you can't bother with the things that used to interest you. Phil Van Reypen thinks they're a horrid lot, and so does Chick Channing, and I do, too."
"You forget that it was down at your house in Lakewood that I first met them."
"No, I don't; but that's no reason you should go over to them so entirely, and forsake all of your old set. I never liked the Blaneys; I only wanted you to meet them, to see how queer and eccentric they were. But I never supposed you'd join their ranks, and become so infatuated with Sam Blaney——"
"I'm not infatuated with Sam Blaney!"
"You are so! You think he's a genius and a poet and a little tin god on wheels!"
"Well, all right, Elise, then I do think so. And I've got a right to think so, if I want to. Now, listen, and stop your foolishness. I said I'd give you my decision, and this is it. I'll come round here Christmas Eve after the party at the Blaneys'. I've got to go to that, for I'm going to dance, and I'm going to be in some 'Living Pictures,' but I can get away by eleven, or soon after, and that will be in time for your dance."
"Well, half a loaf is better than no bread,—I'll have the tree late, then. After you get here."
"Oh, no, don't put off your tree! I might not be able to get here much before midnight."
"Yes, you will. You've promised me for eleven, and you always keep a promise,—I know that. I'll send for you, and you must come."
"All right, I will. Truly, Elise, I want to be at the tree here,—but
I couldn't help the two engagements clashing. Now, also, to show you
that I haven't lost interest in the Girls' Club, I'll have the House
Sale after the holidays are over."