"Well, it will be in my own way if I have to keep it in my lap."
Just then came a loud whisper from the rear—
"Country style! No one in the city ever wears a hat at the theatre!"
A chorus of low laughter followed this remark, and Vera, not knowing it was made by Ivy, began to have doubts as to the correctness of her position.
It was Alene, she knew, who had inaugurated the style here, and she was from the city. Vera noticed, besides, that all over the hall the women and children who wore large hats were taking them off.
"Well, if it's the correct thing. But what's the use of having a fine hat if it's not to be worn in public?" she murmured, as with a show of complacency the "screen" was removed.
Claude and Nettie gave a murmur of joy when they beheld the beautiful painted canvas spread out before them.
At the end of the scene when the curtain fell, the lecturer in a few words thanked the ladies for their courtesy and thoughtfulness. "To have regard for the rights and feelings of others is to act upon the Golden Rule! Not alone for the audience but for myself also I thank you! Especially do I thank the little girls who set the good example." He turned to the bench where the originators of the movement sat and gave them an impressive bow, then he stepped back, and the band started up with a crash and a bang that resounded throughout the hall.
"It was Alene who deserved all the credit," commented Ivy.
"Yes, indeed," agreed Laura warmly.