“You will think that you are lucky,” said Jane; “I don’t believe that you could have chosen a more attractive partner yourself,” and she led him to Cathalina, who stood near one of the windows talking to Betty.
Lieutenant Maxwell received an impression of a lovely face, a filmy frock and a courteous smile as he was introduced first to Cathalina and then by her to the other girls, Betty, Helen, Eloise and Pauline, who happened to be close by. But he offered Cathalina his arm to take her over to a group of young officers who had promised to “stand by” each other and gather with their dinner partners in a little group.
Betty was having two requests for her company, at the table in the hall. Fortunately for her, the most agreeable one came first, indeed had been arranged for, as well.
“I think it would be nice if we put the two who won the honors together, don’t you?” Patricia had asked, thinking what a pleasant companion for Betty it would provide. The others agreeing, she wrote Betty’s name on the card for Donald Hilton, who happened to come along after Lieutenant Maxwell.
“May I ask for somebody?” said Donald at once.
“You may, though I think that you will be pleased with what we have arranged,” replied Patricia.
“I would like very much to meet the young lady who won honors in skating, Miss Betty—”
“She is the one we have for you,” and Patty handed out the card to the pleased lad.
“I know her,” said Corporal Hilton. “I mean I know which she is, but I would be glad to have some one introduce us.”
“We arrange for that,” replied Dr. Norris, introducing one of the attendant girls again, just as Captain Holley appeared with a request for “Miss Barnes,” delivered in rather a haughty manner. Donald overheard him, but did not change countenance as he hurried away with his pretty escort.