The invitation was one which, a year earlier, would have provoked a less ready response, for the party, though organized by Mrs.Fisher, was ostensibly given by a lady of obscure origin and indomitable social ambitions, whose acquaintance Lily had hitherto avoided.

Now, however, she was disposed to coincide with Mrs.Fisher's view, that it didn't matter who gave the party, as long as things were well done; and doing things well (under competent direction) was Mrs.Wellington Bry's strong point.

The lady (whose consort was known as "Welly" Bry on the Stock Exchange and in sporting circles) had already sacrificed one husband, and sundry minor considerations, to her determination to get on; and, having obtained a hold on Carry Fisher, she was astute enough to perceive the wisdom of committing herself entirely to that lady's guidance.

Everything, accordingly, was well done, for there was no limit to Mrs.Fisher's prodigality when she was not spending her own money, and as she remarked to her pupil, a good cook was the best introduction to society.

If the company was not as select as the CUISINE, the Welly Brys at least had the satisfaction of figuring for the first time in the society columns in company with one or two noticeable names; and foremost among these was of course Miss Bart's.