"I'm going to take Rita to Scott's social this evening," he said.
"Ah, indeed," responded Billy; "it's her first time out, isn't it?"
"Yes."
"I envy her, by George, I do, and I envy you," said Billy. He did not envy Dic; but you may remember my remarks concerning bachelor hearts and their unprotected condition in this cruel world. There may be pain of the sort Billy felt without either envy or jealousy.
"Dic, I have a mind to send Rita a nice ribbon or two for to-night. What do you think about it?" asked Billy.
"She would be delighted," answered Dic. "She would accept them from you, but not from me."
"There is no flattery in that remark," answered Billy, with a touch of sharpness.
"Why, Billy Little, what do you suppose I meant?" asked Dic.
"I know you spoke the truth. She would accept a present from the little old knot, but would refuse it from the straight young tree."
"Why, Billy Little, I meant nothing of the sort."