At that, the disturbed faces broadened into smiles, and presently the Doctor asked Polly if she had shown Leonora the new paper dolls that Burton Leonard’s mother had sent her. Which delicate hint told her that the elder people preferred to discuss the matter alone.
It was finally settled according to Mrs. Jocelyn’s mind, as Leonora had felt sure it would be.
“Mother always makes things go her way,” she declared, “and it is a beautiful way, too!”
When it came to deciding on the guests, all was harmonious, even when Polly submitted the name of Ilga Barron, to whom Leonora had felt a strong dislike since her first day at school.
“But you can have her if you want her,” she conceded. “I only hope she won’t spoil the party.”
Polly had the same secret hope, mingled with not a little fear; but she kept silent regarding it, only saying:—
“She has been pleasant lately, and I don’t want to snub her just as she’s growing good.”
On the afternoon of Polly’s birthday, the school furnace needed immediate repair, and the session came to an early close. It had been arranged for Polly to ride home with Leonora; but as the carriage was not there they took a trolley car, Leonora not being yet quite strong enough for so long a walk.
Polly was the first to spy it, the fairy-like automobile, all white and gold, in front of Mrs. Jocelyn’s house. The girls, excited with wonder, walked slowly past the beautiful little car.
“It must belong to somebody’s fairy godmother,” laughed Leonora.