Rupert and Edith Fraser led the march, while Julian followed considerably behind, with a fat, red-headed girl of very limited attractions.
It was hard upon poor Julian, and his enjoyment was quite taken away by the social success of his quondam friend Rupert. Rupert, on the other hand, enjoyed himself immensely, and was treated very graciously by his fair partner.
* * * * * * *
Six months later Mr. Packard called Rupert aside. He was evidently nervous and ill at ease.
"Rupert," he said, "I am going to ask your advice."
"If you think my advice worth asking, I shall be glad to give it."
"I want you to be plain with me, Rupert Do you think I am too old to be married?"
"Certainly not, Mr. Packard."
"I am forty-five, and I never was very good-looking."
"You are a good, kind-hearted man, and any woman ought to be happy with you. But I didn't know you had made many lady acquaintances."