Rosalind's shyness faded away. She forgot about the rose, and Aunt Genevieve's words. Here was a new friend, one who cared about the Forest. She responded warmly to Celia's caress, and when a few minutes later the other Arden Foresters rushed upon the scene, the two were talking together as if they had known each other always.
"Miss Celia, are you going to join our society?" asked Belle, the ardent, flying to her side and giving her a hug.
"Don't stick yourself on my needle! I haven't been invited yet. Rosalind tells me it is a secret society, and of course I am dying to know about it."
"Let's tell her," said Katherine.
"Girls always want to tell everything," remarked Jack, causing Belle to frown upon him sternly.
"The magician has joined," added Rosalind.
"Then I don't see why Miss Celia can't. Do you, Maurice?" asked Belle.
"Listen, Belle," said Celia, laughing, and without waiting for Maurice's reply, "there may be some difference of opinion as to whether I should be a desirable member or not; suppose you go over there under the oak and talk it over. Then if you want me I'll consider the question."
This seemed a sensible suggestion, and the Foresters retired to the shade of the scarlet oak to discuss the matter. Jack had meant nothing but a fling at the feminine fondness for telling things, and was astonished that his remark could be supposed to reflect upon Miss Celia; and as no one else found any objection to the new member, they returned presently to inform her that she was by unanimous consent invited to become an honorary member of their society.
"As honorary members aren't expected to do much, I'll consider it. Now please tell me about it. What is its name and object?"