Jane had appeared in full evening dress. Her gown of old rose messaline was cut very low in the neck, with mere abbreviations in the way of sleeves. The skirt was cut "en train," and the frock was far too elaborate for a girl of her age, even though it had been suitable for the occasion.
A little wave of suppressed giggles rippled over the assemblage as Jane walked toward the Chief Guardian with easy assurance.
Mrs. Livingston rose and advanced to meet the new girl. There was a humorous twinkle in the eyes of the Chief Guardian, but her face was almost stern.
"Isn't she a fright?" muttered Cora.
"The worst I ever saw," agreed Patricia under her breath. "I should like to see myself making friends with her."
"Young ladies," said Mrs. Livingston, facing the tables. "Permit me to introduce to you Miss Jane McCarthy of Meadow-Brook. Miss McCarthy has not been with us long enough to become familiar with our regulations regarding dress. You will therefore, with me, excuse her somewhat elaborate costume for this once."
"What's the matter with my gown? Don't you like it?" demanded Jane, twisting her head sideways for a better view of the general effect of her costume.
"Thave me! Oh, thave me!" wailed Tommy, dropping her head on the shoulder of Harriet Burrell.