Still Mr. Achenbach protested that there must be some misunderstanding. He had received no orders from Exeter.
Landis went back to school at once, and recounted her experiences to the girls. Mary Wilson was confident that Elizabeth had sent in the order. They would be on their guard that particular evening, and permit no caterer to enter the Hall unless under their orders.
The Middlers had some plan afoot. If not a banquet—what then? But the Seniors were agreed it was that. Nancy’s roommate had found a carefully-written menu. And Landis had surprised another Middler painting menu and place cards. That it was to take place, was evident. But where—when? The group of Seniors separated, each admonishing the others to watch the Middlers, and not permit them to talk together alone.
Mary Wilson’s especial duty was to restrain Elizabeth from holding communication with the others. With true diplomacy, she kept her roommate busy so that she had no time to visit other rooms.
“Just hear me go over my oration once more, Elizabeth, please,” she would say. “I’m apt to get careless if I recite without an audience. Sit over there by the window. I’ll stand here. Now, don’t be afraid to tell me if you think I might improve any part.”
And Elizabeth would patiently sit and listen. She showed great interest. She followed closely every word. She lost no gesture, no facial expression. “I think I could repeat it word for word,” she said, when Mary had practiced for the last time, the morning of Class-day. “I could make every gesture you do. I’m really looking forward to this evening.”
Mary’s face flushed with pleasure. “I’m glad you like it. I hope it will pass off well. You see, the chapel will be crowded. The galleries are always filled; and, visitors are glad to get standing room below. It’s our best day, and I wish to do myself and the school credit.” Then suddenly remembering that she was to find out what she could of the Middlers’ plans, she asked suddenly, “Have you any engagement for to-morrow evening, Elizabeth? What do you say about getting up a tally-ho party, our own set and a few visitors, and driving out by moonlight?”
Elizabeth turned her head aside as though she did not wish Mary to see her embarrassment. She hesitated before replying. “I—I—don’t believe I can, Mary.”
“Have you any engagement?”
“Well,—Oh, I don’t know what to say. Please don’t ask me.”