Mrs. Norman colored and looked uneasily at Ethel Danielson.
Mrs. Danielson eyed Mrs. Norman uncomfortably. Each seemed to hear a fearless echo of her own secret reasoning.
"Besides," continued Elise, smiling honestly, "you know you each meant to come all the time, only you won't admit it."
For an instant there was an awkward pause, then Mrs. Norman laughed in chagrined amusement.
"Well, we won't discuss it now," she said; "run along up and leave your wraps—both of you—and I'll wait for you. We will go in together."
A few seconds later they were approaching their hostess with outstretched hands.
"My dear Mrs. Christy," cooed Mrs. Norman, "so good of you to include me among your guests! I know how many friends you have and one can't invite them all."
Mrs. Christy took the extended hand murmuring:
"So nice of you to come with your chaos of engagements! Mrs. Danielson, too!"
"I was delighted to have you think of me, Mrs. Christy," Mrs. Danielson returned effusively, "and you may be sure yours was the only invitation I considered for this afternoon—I let all the others go."