“Some friends of mine are coming on Wednesday,” said Cecil
“Indeed! In Raymond’s absence?”
“This is not a dinner, but a ladies’ party.”
“Then it will combine the better.”
“Certainly not,” replied Cecil. “Mine is simply intellectual—only a few intelligent women to meet Mrs. Tallboys in the library. It will be quite apart from any amusements Rosamond may like to have for the children in the drawing-room.”
“Pray, will they require nothing but this feast of reason and flow of soul?—for the housekeeper will need warning.”
“They will have dined. Nothing but coffee will be wanted.”
“For how many?”
“About twelve or fourteen, thank you. Excuse me—I have something to finish in my own room.”
They were very glad to excuse her, and the following note was concocted to serve both for those she might have invited and those she might not; and it was copied by the two daughters for all the acquaintance who had young folks in their houses. An appearance of want of unanimity was carefully avoided, and it stood thus:—