She stopped, coloring daintily.
"Well, of what?"
"Won't you be—ashamed of me? I never went to a dinner-party in my life.
There are a great many forks and spoons to manage, aren't there?"
"Simplest thing in the world, that, my dear; begin with whatever is next your plate. If you think you are wrong at any time, dally a little, and watch your hostess. By the way, this invitation is for two weeks ahead, and Thanksgiving is next week, Thursday; you shall practise here! I was going to see you soon, to invite all three of you to dine with us that day; will you come? We shall ask the Grandets also, but no one else."
"You are exceedingly kind, Mrs. Macon; we will be more than happy to come. I had dreaded the day," softly.
"Yes, my dear, anniversaries are sad things; but we will try and enjoy this one. And don't hesitate to ask about anything that puzzles you at our table. These little fads of etiquette are easily learned, after one has acquired that real politeness which must become a part of the character; and that you have, Sara."
"Thank you for your encouragement, dear Mrs. Macon; I shall try not to put you to the blush."
CHAPTER XVI.
THE PRINCESS HOLDS A "DRAWING-ROOM."
When Morton heard of the two invitations, and something of the foregoing conversation, as they sat over their cosey supper that evening, he kept quite still, while Molly was running on with questions, suggestions, and comments, till there was a lull; then he looked up at his elder sister with a queer expression.