"Plantagenet," assisted Henrietta Bedford, smoothly. "I am really a Duchess in disguise, but I've left all my retainers in Ohio and I'm simply dying for friends. This is my day for collecting them—I always collect friends on Tuesdays. You are indeed fortunate to have happened upon me on Tuesday. But, Elizabeth, why not finish your introductions?"
"This," obeyed overwhelmed Bettie, "is Jean, this is Marjory and this is Mabel Bennett."
"What! The Damsel of the Dust-chute! I am indeed honored."
Then, as her quick eye traveled over Mabel's plump figure, Henrietta added wickedly:
"Was that chute built to fit?"
Mabel flushed angrily.
"It is I," apologized Henrietta, "that should wear those blushes. Forgive me, dear Damsel. I have an over-quick tongue and all my speeches are followed by repentance. But I have a warm heart and I'm really much nicer than I sound. See, I kneel at your insulted feet."
Whereupon this ridiculous girl with the impertinent nose flopped down on her knees on the sidewalk and made such comically repentant faces that all four giggled merrily.
"Get up, you goose," laughed Mabel. "Your apology is accepted."