Alicia. But, Miss Steele—
Miss Steele. Girls, will you take tea with me to-morrow in my little parlor? I will give a valentine tea, with ices in heart-shapes, and everything that girls like. Perhaps I will tell you a story out of my life that may make you think kindly of a lonely old maid. Will you all come?
All. Yes, Miss Steele, thank you.
Cupid. I can bring you some valentines for your tea, if you like.
Miss Steele. Well, do. Select pretty ones, regardless of cost, and bring them to me. [Exit.]
Cupid. You see, that's just in my line.
Mollie. Somebody fan me! Salts, camphor, quick! Invited to tea by Miss Steele!
Cupid. Don't you think my plan worked famously.
Laura. How did you do it?
Cupid. Well, my aunt—she's the lady that was selling valentines—was awfully worried because you girls were going to send a hideous old comic to your teacher, and I suggested that we substitute our kind—the love valentines. So we just tore up yours, and I addressed one of my prettiest from each of you to Miss Steele. Guess you aren't sorry? Besides, I've filled her heart, now that it has softened, with my arrows, and if you do the right thing by her she'll behave well the rest of the year. You see.