CHAPTER XVII.
ANNE BECOMES FAMOUS That Anne Pierson was to play a six weeks' engagement in New York under the management of the great Southard was a nine days' matter of wonder in Oakdale.
In spite of the fact that Anne tried to keep the news within her immediate circle of friends, it spread like wildfire.
"You'll just have to let me tell it, Anne," laughed Nora O'Malley.

"I can't keep it to myself." Rather to Anne's surprise, there was little disapproval expressed in regard to her coming engagement.

Those who had seen her enact "Rosalind" in the High School production of "As You Like It," fully described in "Grace Harlowe's Junior Year at High School," had been then convinced that her ability was little short of genius.

But the interest of the thing deepened when the story crept about that this engagement meant a college career for her, and Anne became the idol of the hour.
"The whole town has gone mad over Anne," replied Jessica.

"I expect to see a howling populace at the station when she leaves for New York to-morrow." The three chums were seated upon the single bed in Anne's little room at the Pierson cottage, while Anne sat on the floor before an open trunk, busily engaged in packing.
"What shall we do without you!" lamented Grace.