Though sombre-hued this badge may seem,
Disdain it not, for oft, I deem,
Those forced to wear life's thrifty brown
Are worthy of love's brightest crown.
A white satin star, No. 1—
The bravest knight in Arthur's train
Was he who wore with ne'er a stain
The shining badge of purity;
And since I know that thou art true,
And that my trust I ne'er shall rue,
This token white I yield to thee.
No. 2—
Thy gift, as pure as thy radiant brow,
I take, dear heart, with the reverent vow
That whether the way be near or far,
I'll follow the lead of my lady's star.
"There!" said Helen. "Counting in the first two, we have sixteen, and the two sets must be put in separate baskets and drawn for. The next question is, what are the people to do after they find their partners?"
"We must seat each couple at a table and give them some puzzle or problem to work out together," said Catharine, promptly. "How would 'An Astronomical Wedding-Journey' answer? You can get that up, Beth—you are so fond of star-gazing; but don't make it too prosy."
"I'll attempt it only on one condition," answered Elizabeth: "neither of you must see it until it is given to the rest."
"Very well, Beth; we'll leave you to yourself while we copy the valentines."
And this is what Elizabeth set them to pondering over on St. Valentine's eve: